This unpredictable end to the Australian trading week came after a mostly negative morning up on the American markets.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) almost exactly matched the ASX's performance today, rising 0.022%.

However, the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) fared far worse, copping a nasty 2.6% drop.

Let's return to ASX shares now and check out what was going on amongst the various ASX sectors today.

Winners and losers

There were plenty of both red and green sectors this session.

Leading the former were gold shares. The All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) had a shocker today, crashing 5.56%.

Broader mining stocks also had a day to forget, with the S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) tanking 3.85%.

Tech shares were a little better. The S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) still retreated 0.92%, though.

Real estate investment trusts (REITs) couldn't quite hold water either, as you can see from the S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ)'s 0.54% dive.

Energy stocks had another rough one. The S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) dipped 0.4% lower this Friday.

That's it for the red sectors though, so let's get to the greens.

Leading the charge higher today were consumer discretionary shares, with the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) soaring 2.58% higher.

Financial stocks had a day to remember, too. The S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ) saw its value spike 2.21% this session.

Communications shares were in demand as well, evidenced by the S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ)'s 1.15% surge.

Utilities shares also ran hot. The S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ) ended the day 0.82% higher than where it started.

Healthcare stocks had a nice time, with the S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ) getting bumped up by 0.69%.

Consumer staples shares came next. The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ) saw 0.1% added to its total.

Finally, industrial stocks scraped home with a win, illustrated by the S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ)'s 0.1% uptick.

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

Our final top stock of the week was furniture retailer Nick Scali Ltd (ASX: NCK). Nick Scali shares shot up 5.15% this Friday to close the week at $12.65 each.

There wasn't any news from the company today, so this looks like a rebound following the 15% drop we saw yesterday.

Here's the rest of today's best:

Enjoy the weekend!

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

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

Find out how three major ASX 200 shares, Austal Ltd (ASX: ASB), BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP), and Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC) are tracking. And which one brokers rate as a buy, a hold, and a sell.

Brokers rate Austal shares as a buy

Austal shares have jumped 12% higher over the past week, up to $4.18 a piece at the time of writing. The rebound is great news for investors but there is still some way to go before the Australian-based global shipbuilding company and defence prime contractor's shares have recouped losses shed earlier this year.

The shares are still down around 38% year to date and 39% lower than this time last year.

There hasn't been any specific price-sensitive news out of the company to explain the rebound over the past week, but there are media reports that the company is still weighing up two competing offers for its US operations. 

Wildcat Infrastructure launched a non-binding counter-bid of US$1.25 billion to US$1.35 billion to acquire Austal's US operations as a standalone platform last month. This proposal directly competes with Hanwha Group's earlier US$1.05 billion to US$1.20 billion buyout offer.  

Last week, Austal confirmed that it had extended the due diligence period provided to Hanwha Defence USA, Inc. to enable it to firm-up its indicative, non-binding and conditional offer into a binding offer for Austal USA.

Brokers are optimistic that Austal shares can rally even higher. According to Market Index, the majority have a buy rating on the shares and the $5.36 average target price implies a 28% upside, at the time of writing.

Brokers rate BHP shares as a hold

BHP shares are also in focus this week after the mining giant posted its first-quarter FY27 update on Tuesday. 

The company announced steady iron ore production and stronger realised prices, despite a drop in copper output. The miner also confirmed that there is no change to its FY27 production or unit cost guidance across core divisions.

The update follows two fatalities at its Escondida and Peak Downs sites during the quarter. These have prompted company-wide safety reviews and temporary operational pauses at the affected sites.

At the time of writing, BHP shares have fallen around 3% over the past week to $59.50. Despite the decline, the shares are still trading around 30% higher year to date and they're up around 35% compared to 12 months ago.

But the experts are still reserved about where the ASX mining shares could go from here. Market Index data shows the majority have a hold rating on the shares. And the $62.63 average target price implies a potential 5% upside, at the time of writing.

Brokers rate Westpac shares as a sell

Westpac shares are largely flat over the past week to $35.13 at the time of writing. The ASX bank shares have now fallen around 10% year to date and are 10% lower than this time last year.

It looks like investors are sitting tight on Westpac shares ahead of the bank's FY26 earnings announcement on the 2nd of November. Investors are likely waiting to see how the bank's net interest margins and revenue perform. The bank is guiding revenue growth of 3% to 5% and a cost-to-income ratio of 51% to 53%.

On Monday, Westpac announced a $41 million pre-tax notable item in the second half of FY27 for expenses related to the RAMS litigation matters and associated legal costs.

Elsewhere in the bank sector, there has been a rebound in confidence following fresh unemployment data and renewed confidence that the RBA will pause rates for the near future.

Market experts think that there is potential for Westpac shares to fall further. Market Index data shows the majority have a sell rating on the stock, and the $34.18 average target price implies a potential 3% downside, at the time of writing.

The post Austal, BHP, Westpac shares: Buy, sell, hold appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Choosing between Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC) and AMP Ltd (ASX: AMP) can feel a bit like picking your favourite out of Australia's classic financial names. Both companies offer investors a slice of the nation's financial industry, but their strengths (and their differences) could have a real impact on retirees looking for income and stability. Here's how I see the two stack up as investments for those living off their portfolios.

The case for Westpac

Founded in 1817, Westpac is a household name and one of Australia's 'big four' banks. With a long-running history and a broad offering—from everyday banking to wealth management and institutional services—Westpac has its tentacles in almost every corner of Australian finance. Its family of brands includes Westpac itself, St.George, Bank of Melbourne, BankSA, and BT. It operates across consumer, business, and institutional spaces, both here and in New Zealand.

For me, a real standout with Westpac is its commitment to fully franked dividends—a big plus for retirees seeking tax-effective income. According to the latest data, it boasts:

• Market cap of $120.22 billion (distinctly one of the ASX's largest)
• P/E ratio of 17.60
• Dividend yield of 4.31%, with 100% franking—meaning potential tax credits come tax time
• Earnings per share of $2.029

Westpac's dividend history shows a long track record of regular, reliable payments, including some special dividends sprinkled in, all with full franking. This level of consistency is pretty attractive for those in the drawdown phase of retirement.

The case for AMP

AMP has been a pillar of Australia's financial scene since 1849, originally starting as the Australian Mutual Provident Society. These days, AMP provides superannuation, life insurance, investment management, and banking services to individuals and businesses alike. The company has seen some major strategic changes recently, including forming a joint venture for its advice business and streamlining operations with the sale of Collimate Capital.

The fundamentals for AMP catch the eye for different reasons:

• Market cap sits at $5.79 billion, making it notably smaller than Westpac
• P/E ratio of 32.43—higher than Westpac's, signaling the market may be pricing in more growth or a recovery
• Dividend yield of 2.08%, with only 20% franking
• Earnings per share is $0.074
• Year to date (YTD) return at a striking 34.6%

While AMP's dividends are partially franked and smaller, the sizeable YTD share price jump suggests positive momentum—something that may appeal to those not just focused on income but also growth potential, even as a retiree.

Valuation comparison

Here's how some key metrics line up side by side:

Note: AMP's P/E ratio and EPS suggest a relatively 'expensive' valuation compared to Westpac, and its lower franking level could mean less effective after-tax income for retirees. The higher P/E for AMP suggests the market might expect greater earnings growth—although that comes with more risk.

Recent share price momentum

Comparing year-to-date performance in 2026:

• Westpac: -5.5%
• AMP: 34.6%

Clearly, AMP shares have charged ahead in 2026, while Westpac has lost a little ground.

Which is the better buy?

If I'm thinking like a retiree, seeking stability and consistent tax-effective income, Westpac squarely ticks the boxes for me. That 4.3% fully franked dividend is hard to beat, especially when paired with the bank's scale and regular history of rewarding shareholders. AMP's run-up this year is impressive, but with a much higher P/E, a smaller, only partially franked dividend, and less stability, I'd see it as a riskier option for those living off their investments.

For my money, Westpac is the more suitable ASX financial share for retirees aiming for worry-free dividend income. While AMP has momentum, I'm a fan of solid, sleep-well income—and Westpac delivers that in spades.

The post Westpac vs AMP: Which ASX financial stock is best for retirees? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

If you're thinking about investing in one of Australia's big four banks, odds are you're weighing up ANZ Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: ANZ) and Westpac Banking Corporation (ASX: WBC) Both are banking giants with deep roots in the Aussie and Kiwi economies, and both offer investors a slice of the nation's financial backbone. But if you had $5,000 to put to work, which should you choose? Let's look at the key differences between ANZ and Westpac shares.

The case for ANZ

ANZ is a powerhouse of Australian banking, tracing its roots back to 1969 and now serving over 8.5 million customers, according to its company profile. ANZ covers just about every corner of the banking world, from retail and small business to corporate and institutional clients, and its operations stretch across 30 international markets, including major presences in Australia, New Zealand, Asia Pacific, the UK, and the US.

A couple of the big-ticket fundamentals stand out:

• Market cap: $115.51 billion – making ANZ one of the largest stocks on the ASX
• P/E ratio: 19.46 – a touch above Westpac, suggesting investors are willing to pay more for each dollar of earnings
• Dividend yield: 4.32% – steady income but not the top among the big four
• Franking: 75% – lower than fully franked rivals, potentially less appealing for those seeking maximum franking credits

Looking at its dividend history, ANZ has a long record of reliable payments, though recent years have seen some reductions in franking levels. The most current interim dividend is $0.83 per share, 75% franked.

The case for Westpac

Westpac is the oldest banking institution in Australia, launched in 1817 as the Bank of New South Wales before becoming Westpac Banking Corp in 1982. These days, it stands tall as one of the big four, serving millions of Australian and New Zealand customers under multiple brands like Westpac, St.George, Bank of Melbourne, BankSA, and BT. The group covers everything from consumer and business banking to institutional services and wealth management.

Key fundamentals for Westpac include:

• Market cap: $118.65 billion – slightly ahead of ANZ, putting it near the very top of the big four by size
• P/E ratio: 17.33 – lower than ANZ, which could suggest better relative value if both banks face similar outlooks
• Dividend yield: 4.38% – slightly higher than ANZ, and every cent counts for income seekers
• Franking: 100% – meaning fully franked dividends, which is a bonus for investors who can use franking credits

Westpac's dividend payment history is also strong, with regular dividends and, notably, fully franked payouts. Its most recent interim dividend is $0.77 per share, fully franked, plus a $0.15 special dividend in 2024.

Valuation comparison

Here's how ANZ and Westpac stack up on the main investment yardsticks:

Note: ANZ's reported P/E ratio may be based on a different earnings measure than the EPS shown, which can lead to apparent inconsistencies.

Overall, Westpac looks just a little more attractive on both P/E ratio and dividend yield. Its fully franked dividends could also make a meaningful difference for some investors. ANZ edges ahead on dividend per share, but Westpac's higher franking boosts its after-tax income for most Aussies.

Recent share price momentum

Comparing recent share price performance up to14 October 2026:

• ANZ: Closed at $38.30. Year-to-date return is a solid 7.9%.
• Westpac: Closed at $34.69. Year-to-date return is -6.9%, meaning its share price has lagged in 2026.

Just in the past fortnight of data provided, both shares have seen daily ups and downs, but the real story is in the overall 2026 trend: ANZ is up, while Westpac is down.

Which is the better buy?

If I had $5,000 to invest in one of these banks today, I'd lean toward ANZ. Here's my reasoning: While Westpac edges out ANZ on dividend yield and offers fully franked dividends, ANZ has meaningfully outperformed in recent months, posting a near 8% gain year-to-date while Westpac's shares are in the red. The market is putting a slightly higher valuation on ANZ, reflected in its P/E, and while that does often mean higher expectations, I think the combination of global exposure, steady growth, and recent price strength tips the scales in ANZ's favour. Westpac is no slouch, and its fully franked dividends are a real drawcard for income hunters, but the negative price momentum worries me here. For a blend of reasonable income, international reach, and current momentum, my pick would be ANZ.

The post ANZ vs Westpac shares: Which big four bank is the better buy for $5,000? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

But what if, rather than living off your superannuation balance, you could continue earning your working wage even after you retire?

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, $108,352 is the average full-time earnings of Australians in 2026.

If you're able to continue generating the same income level in your retirement years, then you'll be able to live above and beyond a comfortable retirement lifestyle.

And it's easier than you'd think.

If you invest your superannuation wisely, you could generate a passive income in retirement on par with the average $108,000 Aussie wage.

But what would it actually take?

Let's investigate.

How much do I need in my superannuation to earn an annual passive income of $108,000?

To calculate the amount of superannuation you need, you'll need to divide your annual passive income by the dividend yield of your portfolio.

The only issue is that the answer varies depending on what that yield is.

The general rule of thumb is, as your yield goes up, the passive income you can earn off the same balance also increases.

This means that a portfolio with a dividend yield of say, 6%, only needs to be half the size of one with a 3% dividend yield in order to earn the same amount of passive income every year.

Break it down for me by yield

If your overall superannuation portfolio has a dividend yield of around 2%, you'll need a balance of $5.4 million.

Obviously, that's a huge figure, and out of reach for many Australians. 

But remember, as your yield increases, the required balance goes down. 

If your portfolio's yield is closer to 3%, your balance would need to be closer to $3.6 million.

For a 4% yielding portfolio, you'd need a balance closer to $2.7 million.

Raise it a little more to 5%, and you're looking at a balance of $2.16 million. That will still generate the same $108,000 passive income every year.

At a yield of 6%, your superannuation portfolio would need to be around $1.8 million in size.

It could then go down to around $1.54 million or $1.35 million for a 7% or 8% yielding portfolio, respectively.

I'm a little risk adverse, I'd be most comfortable with investing my superannuation into 4% to 6% yielding ASX shares. What are my options?

It's a wise move.

It can be tempting to go for the highest-yielding shares with the expectation that you could earn that same passive income off a much smaller balance. And it's possible, but it's a risky investment strategy.

Generally, the higher-yielding ASX dividend investments are associated with more risk. Investors might be faced with lower capital growth or fluctuating income.

But a 4% to 6% yield is often considered to be the "sweet spot".

It's the middle ground between large, stable, low-growth ASX businesses, and high-growth volatile shares. 

Companies in this bracket could be some of the major banks, defensive infrastructure shares, or energy stocks. 

For example, Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS), AGL Energy Ltd (ASX: AGL), National Australia Bank Ltd (ASX: NAB), ANZ Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: ANZ), Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC), Transurban Group (ASX: TCL), and Origin Energy Ltd (ASX: ORG) and all yield around the 4% to 6% level, at the time of writing.

The post How much do I need in my superannuation to generate a $108,000 annual passive income? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

It sits above the $630,000 balance that the Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia (ASFA) thinks every Australian needs for a comfortable retirement, and below the asset cut-off point for a part Age Pension payment.

This amount of money means you'll be able to live well when you decide to stop working. But if you invest that money wisely, it could also generate an additional passive income that'll turn a comfortable retirement lifestyle into an affluent one. 

Think frequent travel, luxury property, and flexible discretionary spending.

So, how much passive income can you earn off a $700,000 superannuation balance?

And what ASX shares could you invest in?

Let's take a look.

The calculation

There is a straightforward calculation to work out what passive income a $700,000 passive income could generate.

If you multiply your total superannuation balance by the overall dividend yield of your portfolio, it'll give you the passive income you could generate.

The answer changes depending on your dividend yield, which helps you identify what you need to invest in to earn the income you want. 

Generally, as your yield goes up, the passive income you can earn off the same balance also increases.

How much could I earn off a 2% to 3% yielding superannuation portfolio?

A 2% yielding portfolio is at the lowest end of the scale. Off a $700,000 superannuation balance, you'd generate around $14,000 in passive income. That's because $700,000 x 2% = $14,000 in dividend payments.

It's not a huge amount, but the benefit of a super low yielding portfolio is that this would generally be focused on traditional and reliable blue-chip shares rather than towards high-growth ASX stocks.

Think Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW), Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG), and even CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL). These shares are each huge in scale, have a long history of paying dividends to shareholders, and they yield somewhere in the 2% to 2.5% range, at the time of writing.

On a 3% yielding portfolio, you could earn a little more, at closer to $21,000 per year in dividend income, off the same balance.

Stocks around the 3% level typically offer investors a balance between a moderate, reliable passive income, and some capital growth potential.

Think Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA), BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP), and Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES). These powerhouses all offer a yield of around 3% to 3.5% at the time of writing.

What about a 4% to 5% yielding superannuation portfolio?

If your superannuation portfolio yields closer to 4% or 5%, you could earn even more, at closer to $28,000 or $35,000 per year in passive income, respectively.

This is often considered by investors as the "sweet spot" between stability and growth. Companies in this bracket are typically large-scale blue chips, major banks, or defensive infrastructure shares. 

For example, Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO), Medibank Private Ltd (ASX: MPL), National Australia Bank Ltd (ASX: NAB), ANZ Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: ANZ), Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC), Deterra Royalties Ltd (ASX: DRR), Transurban Group (ASX: TCL), and Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS) all yield around this bracket, at the time of writing.

What about higher yielding ASX shares, around the 6% to 8% level?

It's possible to earn even more if your superannuation investment portfolio is high yield, but this comes with a lot more risk. Investors would need to accept lower growth, or potentially even share price declines, in place of a higher passive income.

There are still plenty of options around this level, though.

Some examples are Harvey Norman Holdings Ltd (ASX: HVN), Premier Investments Ltd (ASX: PMV), or Nick Scali Ltd (ASX: NCK). 

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITS) also typically offer a higher yield thanks to their predictable rental income. Such as, Charter Hall Long WALE REIT (ASX: CLW), Waypoint REIT Ltd (ASX: WPR), and HomeCo Daily Needs REIT (ASX: HDN).

The post How much passive income can I earn off a $700,000 superannuation balance? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Are you tossing up between Westpac Banking Corporation (ASX: WBC) and BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) for your next $10,000 investment? You're not alone – both are true giants of the ASX, each representing a pillar of the Aussie market. But apart from sheer size, these companies couldn't be more different: one is all about steady banking, the other about resources and mining. If you're weighing up Westpac vs BHP shares, let's unpack how they stack up right now.

The case for Westpac

Westpac has been a cornerstone of Australian finance since its origins as the Bank of New South Wales in 1817. Now one of Australia's major banks, Westpac offers a mix of consumer, business, and institutional banking across trusted brands like St.George, Bank of Melbourne, BankSA and BT. Its reach covers everything from everyday banking to large-scale corporate finance.

A few fundamentals stand out for Westpac:

• Fully franked dividends: As of the latest data, Westpac pays a 4.57% dividend yield with 100% franking credits. Those dividends appear steady, with recent payouts at $0.77 per share.
• Valuation: Westpac's P/E ratio sits at 16.62, based on an earnings per share (EPS) of $2.029.
• Reliable payouts: Dividend history shows consistent, fully franked dividends paid on a regular basis, which can mean stability for income-focused investors.

On the flip side, the year-to-date (YTD) return is -10.65%, signalling recent share price weakness.

The case for BHP

BHP Group previously known as BHP Billiton, is a global mining powerhouse and one of the biggest listed companies in Australia. From iron ore and copper to coal and nickel, BHP rides the waves of the international commodity cycle. That makes it a go-to for investors looking for resources exposure and the potential upside from rising commodity prices.

For BHP, here's what jumps out:

• Strong recent momentum: BHP's share price has delivered a positive YTD return of 39.28% – that's a significant run-up, especially against the backdrop of a weakening broader market.
• Dividend muscle: The current yield is 3.97%, with dividends fully franked and notably high dollar payouts (dividend per share $2.42, as per the latest figures).
• Earnings power: BHP's EPS clocks in at $1.932, with a P/E ratio of 21.96 – higher than Westpac's, which reflects either loftier earnings expectations or recent share price strength.

As a resources stock, BHP's fortunes are more closely tied to global commodity demand and prices, so expect higher volatility compared to the banks.

Valuation comparison

Let's line up the key numbers:

BHP commands a higher P/E, likely due to its strong recent momentum or differing market expectations. Both offer full franking on dividends, but Westpac edges ahead on yield.

Recent share price momentum

Comparing recent share price momentum up to 9 October:

• Westpac closed at $33.72, barely changed from the previous day, though recent weeks have seen more down days than up. Its YTD return sits at -10.7%.
• BHP closed at $60.94, recently coming off a minor dip but sitting much higher for the year, with a YTD return of 39.3%.

These figures show recent investor enthusiasm is firmly with BHP, while Westpac shares have lagged.

Which is the better buy?

If I were putting $10,000 to work this week, my pick would be BHP. That's mostly down to momentum – BHP's share price has soared nearly 40% this year, while Westpac has struggled. Usually I'd pause after such a strong run, but BHP's global exposure to commodities could keep driving performance if demand holds up.

Yes, Westpac pays a higher dividend yield (and also with full franking credits), which can tempt income seekers. But, with its share price going backwards and little growth on offer in the near term, it looks stuck in neutral compared to BHP's dynamism.

Valuation-wise, Westpac's lower P/E ratio does make it look more attractively priced on headline numbers, but the banking sector's outlook remains challenged by slower lending growth and ongoing regulatory headwinds. BHP's higher multiple reflects a market willing to pay up for outsized earnings potential.

It's not a one-sided contest – a contrarian might fancy Westpac for dividends and a recovery. But for me, given the current data and recent price momentum, BHP offers broader exposure and the best mix of growth and income opportunities right now.

The post Westpac vs BHP: Which ASX giant is the better buy right now? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Find out how three of the biggest ASX 200 shares, CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL), Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC), and BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) shares are tracking today. And which one brokers rate as a buy, a hold, and a sell.

BUY CSL shares

CSL shares are up around 0.5% at the time of writing on Tuesday, to $185.21 a piece. The ASX biotech shares have now rebounded 101% from a 10-year low in June. They're 8% higher year to date.

Last week, the company said it had entered into an exclusive US$1.6 billion deal with Alentis Therapeutics for lixudebart, a treatment targeting rare kidney and liver conditions.

CSL is expected to make an initial upfront payment of US$355 million to Alentis Therapeutics, and it will make additional commercial milestone payments of up to US$1.2 billion depending on the commercial success.

The update follows a rebound in investor confidence and a robust FY26 results announcement in August. The company said that it expects a return to growth in FY27. 

The experts are confident that the company can deliver. Market Index shows the majority have a buy rating on the shares, but after the latest increase, the $159.86 average target price implies a downside of around 14%, at the time of writing.

HOLD BHP shares

BHP shares have slumped lower today, down around 1.5% to $61.57 at the time of writing. Despite the decline, the shares are still up around 35% year to date and 47% higher than this time last year.

It looks like ASX mining shares are facing headwinds from broad market weakness and ongoing operational disruptions.

Last month, BHP was forced to suspend mining activities at its Escondida copper mine in Chile after a fatal accident. Under Chilean mining regulations, operations cannot restart following a fatal accident until safety inspectors have confirmed that conditions are safe. There is no indication when production might resume. 

Higher oil prices today also act as a headwind for BHP because they drive up operational costs. Trading Economics shows that crude oil has surpassed US$93 per barrel this morning, following three consecutive sessions of gains.

Investors are hesitant about BHP shares, and so are the experts. Market Index data shows the majority of brokers have a hold rating on the mining shares. The current $61.50 average target price is close to flat on the trading price at the time of writing.

SELL Westpac shares

Westpac shares are slightly higher at the time of writing, up around 0.5% to $34.71 a piece. The increase is good news for investors. The ASX bank shares have tumbled around 11% lower for the year to date, and they're also 11% lower than a year ago.

The Reserve Bank's latest interest rate hike continues to put pressure on Westpac shares. The move also comes at a time when there is a broad slowdown in Australia's property market, lower mortgage applications, and falling confidence in bank shares.

Westpac shares have been pushed into the spotlight this week amid fresh media reports that it plans to cut 102 jobs as part of its restructuring plans. The Financial Services Union (FSU) said Westpac is proposing to restructure its Risk, Institutional Banking, and Finance teams, affecting a total of 174 jobs. Of those roles, 102 positions will be made redundant, while the remaining 72 will be moved to comparable roles.

Market Index data shows that the experts are already bearish about the outlook for Westpac shares. The majority have a sell rating on the shares. The average target price of $34.18 implies a downside of around 1% at the time of writing.

The post CSL, Westpac, BHP shares: Buy, hold, or sell? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The largest Australian banks usually have generous dividend payout ratios, partly because they don't have many places to invest profit generated at a strong return. Plus, plenty of individual investors are looking for passive income (including the franking credits).

Let's take a look at what the ASX bank share is forecast to pay in 2027.

Dividend forecast for Westpac shares

The company's dividend has grown in most of the years this decade and I'm sure shareholders are hoping for another increase in 2026.

The ASX bank share is facing economic volatility amid an elevated cost-of-living and higher interest rates. It'll be interesting to see how Westpac's financials handle the current situation.

We haven't seen the 2026 financial year annual dividend yet because the ASX bank share's FY26 only just finished at the end of September 2026, so we'll find out what those numbers are in the next few weeks when it reports.

According to the projection on CMC Invest, owners of Westpac shares are forecast to see a $1.55 dividend per share related to FY26.

Pleasingly, analysts are expecting a larger dividend for investors in the 2027 financial year. According to the forecast on CMC Invest, the business is forecast to grow its annual dividend by 1.6% to $1.575.

At the time of writing, that translates into a dividend yield of 4.7% excluding franking credits and 6.7% including franking credits. That's a solid dividend yield compared to the S&P/ASX 300 Index (ASX: XKO), which has a dividend yield of just over 3% (excluding franking credits).

If someone were to invest $6,000 in Westpac shares, they would unlock sizeable passive income, according to the projections.

At the time of writing, an investor would be able to buy 177 Westpac shares (with a little bit of cash left).

Excluding franking credits, 177 shares of the bank could deliver $278.78 of dividend cash. Including franking credits, it could be $398.25 of grossed-up dividend income.

Is this a good time to invest in Westpac shares?

According to CMC Invest, there have been eight ratings on the business. Of those ratings, one was a buy, two were a hold and five ratings were a sell. The average price target of those eight analysts is $34.23, suggesting a rise of around 1% over the next year (at the time of writing).

Therefore, it's not cheap and may not deliver market-beating returns. But, it could still deliver solid passive income.

The post If I buy $6,000 of Westpac shares, how much dividend income will I receive in 2027? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Some have a clear path to stronger earnings over the coming years, while others face a more challenging environment.

With that in mind, here is how I would rate three popular ASX shares today.

BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP)

BHP is a buy for me, largely because of how I expect its business to develop over the next decade.

The mining giant already has an enormous copper business, and I think that commodity could become an increasingly important source of earnings.

Demand for copper is expected to grow as countries invest in electricity networks, renewable energy, electric vehicles, and the infrastructure needed to support artificial intelligence (AI).

BHP is positioning itself for that demand through its existing operations and a pipeline of projects across several countries.

I also like that its iron ore business provides substantial cash flow to help fund those ambitions.

Iron ore prices will inevitably fluctuate, particularly given China's importance to the global steel market. But BHP's scale and low-cost operations put it in a strong position to navigate those cycles.

The development of its Jansen potash project in Canada should also provide another earnings stream as production ramps up.

For me, BHP offers an attractive combination of established operations, long-term growth opportunities, and the potential for healthy dividends.

Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC)

Westpac is a hold in my view.

There is plenty to like about the bank. It has an established position in Australian mortgages and deposits, a large customer base, and the ability to generate substantial profits through different economic conditions.

It also remains an important dividend payer, which makes it a reasonable option for investors seeking income.

My hesitation comes from the outlook for growth. Higher interest rates can support banking margins, but they also place greater pressure on borrowers and reduce demand for new loans.

With Australia's housing market facing a more difficult period, I think Westpac could find it challenging to deliver particularly strong earnings growth.

There is also competition to consider. Banks are constantly competing for mortgage customers and deposits, which can limit how much benefit they receive from higher rates.

None of this makes Westpac a poor business. If I already owned the shares, I would be comfortable continuing to collect the dividends and giving management time to deliver.

But for fresh investment, I think there are more compelling opportunities elsewhere on the ASX.

Zip Co Ltd (ASX: ZIP)

Zip is my second buy, although it comes with considerably more risk than BHP shares.

The buy now, pay later company has spent recent years improving its financial position and building a platform for more profitable growth.

I think the opportunity in the United States is particularly exciting. There is still room for Zip to expand its merchant relationships, attract more customers, and capture a larger share of consumer spending.

As transaction volumes increase, the company has an opportunity to spread its operating costs across a larger business. I think that could translate into strong earnings growth over the coming years.

But I would be watching credit quality closely. Zip needs to demonstrate that it can continue to grow without taking on excessive lending risk, particularly as higher interest rates put pressure on household finances.

If management continues balancing growth with disciplined lending, I think the company could become substantially more profitable by the end of the decade.

And with the shares still trading well below their previous highs, I believe there could be significant upside if that happens.

Foolish takeaway

BHP and Zip would both be on my buy list today, although for quite different reasons.

BHP offers exposure to long-term commodity demand, while Zip has the potential to deliver much faster earnings growth.

Westpac remains a solid business, but I would be happy holding rather than buying at this stage.

The post Buy, hold, sell: BHP, Westpac, and Zip shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

When everyday Aussie investors pit Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC) against Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG), it's a true battle of the banking heavyweights. Both are giants on the ASX, but their business models, dividend profiles, and recent share price moves are worlds apart. So, which is the better value bank share as October rolls in? Let's dive in.

The case for Westpac

Westpac is one of the original pillars of Australian banking, tracing lineage back to the Bank of New South Wales in 1817 and evolving to today's broad financial services powerhouse. Its customer reach stretches across household names like St.George, BankSA, and BT, making it a true mainstay in consumer, business, and institutional banking.

Looking at the numbers, Westpac boasts a hefty $118.55 billion market cap, marking it as a core blue-chip. It has a fully franked dividend yield of 4.47%, which is one of the highest amongst the major banks, with 100% franking credits — that's music to many income-seekers' ears. The P/E ratio is 16.97, and it reports earnings per share of $2.029, keeping its valuation broadly in line with the sector.

Drilling down into dividends, Westpac's payment history is extremely consistent. It most recently paid $0.77 per share (100% franked) in both May and November 2026, and its history of full franking stretches back for decades. Westpac is described as one of Australia's 'big four' banks by customers and earnings and manages multiple major brands.

The case for Macquarie Group

Macquarie Group takes a different approach, known for its investment banking prowess and specialist asset management expertise. While it's Australia's fifth-largest bank by market capitalisation, Macquarie's exposure is truly global, and it's regularly ranked among the world's top asset managers. Its bread and butter is investment, commercial banking, commodities, energy, and infrastructure — not retail mortgages like the big four.

As of now, Macquarie has a market cap of $95.92 billion, a P/E ratio of 19.58, and earnings per share clocking in at $12.669. The most recent dividend yield is 2.82%, noticeably lower than Westpac, and its franking sits at just 35%. The last 12 months have been kind to Macquarie in terms of growth, with a strong year-to-date return of 24.12%.

Macquarie operates in 34 markets worldwide, reflecting enormous diversification. Its dividend payouts have steadily grown, with the last two payments being $2.80 and $4.20 per share, albeit at only 35% franking.

Valuation comparison

Comparing the key figures side by side draws out some truly meaningful contrasts:

Note: Macquarie's higher P/E could partly reflect its global asset management exposure and growth profile, while Westpac's fully franked yield is a major advantage for income-focused investors.

Recent share price momentum

Based on recent share price performance up to October 2026:

• Westpac closed at $34.66, up just 0.64% for the day. Over the year so far, it's actually down 8.8%.
• Macquarie Group ended at $250.02, up 0.81% on the day, and boasts a strong YTD gain of 24.1%.

Which is the better buy?

If I had to pick one bank share for value this October, my lean would be toward Macquarie Group. Westpac's fully franked 4.47% yield will absolutely tempt some, especially those seeking steady, consistent dividend income with a big-four safety net. However, I see Macquarie's compelling momentum and sector-leading YTD growth (24.1% versus Westpac's negative return) as a strong pointer to ongoing strength.

Macquarie's P/E of 19.6 is a bit richer than Westpac's, but its growth profile — fuelled by global asset management and investment banking — justifies that premium, in my view. The lower dividend yield and franking do matter for income portfolios, but if I want a bank with innovation, global upside, and track record of growing earnings over recent times, I'd lean toward Macquarie Group for October's value pick. If my focus was pure income, though, Westpac would still deserve a spot on my watchlist.

The post Westpac vs Macquarie Group: Which bank is better value now? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

If you're weighing up Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC) against National Australia Bank Ltd (ASX: NAB), you're not alone. These two stalwarts sit among the 'big four' and anchor many Aussie portfolios and super funds. Their sheer size and history make both popular for long-term income seekers, but subtle differences in dividends, valuation and recent price momentum could tip the scales if you're looking for a potential edge.

The case for Westpac

Westpac is Australia's oldest bank, dating all the way back to 1817. Today, it holds one of the largest footprints of any financial institution in the country with a range of consumer, business and wealth banking brands including St.George, Bank of Melbourne, BankSA and BT. Westpac provides everything from mortgages and deposits to institutional banking.

Three fundamentals stand out for me:

• Dividend yield: 4.49% with 100% franking, making it attractive for income-focused investors, especially those seeking tax-effective payouts.
• P/E ratio: 16.91, putting Westpac at a lower valuation than NAB on this simple metric.
• Earnings per share: $2.029, marginally higher than NAB's reported figure.

Dividend stability and a long track record add to Westpac's appeal. According to its most recent public description, Westpac remains one of the top listed companies on the ASX, backed by diversified operations across both retail and institutional markets.

The case for National Australia Bank

NAB is another giant, tracing its present structure to 1982 and serving millions across Australia and New Zealand, with international outposts in the UK, the US and Asia. It delivers a similar suite – home loans, business banking, wealth management – with a significant focus on both domestic and overseas growth.

Here are its key drawcards:

• Dividend per share: $1.70, higher than Westpac's $1.54 (as per the latest data), and also fully franked.
• Market cap: $119.71 billion, fractionally above Westpac and suggesting slightly more investor confidence in the current climate.
• Dividend yield: 4.42% – only a whisker below Westpac's but with a higher absolute dividend payment per share.

NAB's broader international exposure and a reputation for steady payouts, as reinforced by its company profile, cement its spot at the top end of the ASX.

Valuation comparison

Let's put the most relevant metrics head-to-head:

Westpac currently trades at a lower P/E multiple than NAB, meaning you're paying a little less per dollar of reported earnings. The dividend yields are close (Westpac higher by 0.07 points), but NAB's dividend per share is larger. EPS is almost neck and neck. Note: NAB's higher dividend payout versus similar earnings per share could indicate either a higher payout ratio or greater profit stability – but payout ratios themselves weren't in the data provided for this comparison.

Recent share price momentum

Comparing recent share price performance up to I'll use 5 October 2026:

• Westpac: Closed at $34.44 as of 5 October 2026, finishing the day 0.35% higher.
• NAB: Closed at $38.40 on the same date, registering a 0.26% intraday dip.
• Year to date: Westpac is down -9.1% YTD, while NAB has dropped -7.0% over the same period.

Both banks have had a soft year, but NAB's share price has held up a touch better so far in 2026.

Which is the better buy?

Both Westpac and NAB offer strong brand power, broad services and full franking—a trio of traits most Aussie income investors prize. If what you want is a slightly higher yield and lower valuation, I think Westpac edges ahead, especially if you believe the market is being too harsh with its recent price drop. Its P/E ratio undercuts NAB by a useful margin, and with a fully franked yield, that's a handy combo for value-conscious portfolios.

On the other hand, NAB's larger dividend payment and slightly lower share price volatility this year are also hard to ignore. But paying a higher P/E for almost the same underlying earnings and yield doesn't sway me. For my money, I'd lean toward Westpac for its blend of yield and comparative valuation at current prices—while fully acknowledging that the margin is slim, not overwhelming. Ultimately, both are formidable blue-chip foundations, but in a straight shootout based on the latest numbers, my pick would be Westpac.

The post Westpac vs NAB shares: Which big bank is the better buy? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Jarden only has an overweight recommendation on ANZ Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: ANZ). Meanwhile, it has sell ratings on Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA), National Australia Bank Ltd (ASX: NAB) and Westpac Banking Corporation (ASX: WBC).

Federal Budget having an impact

The broker argues that the federal government's changes to capital gains tax and negative gearing rules for property investors will at least halve the rate of home loan growth, which could have implications for dividend policies at the banks.

Jarden said Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG) continues to outperform the big four banks with its simplified digital offerings.

The broker also said AI threatens to change the way people interact with banking, and inertia may no longer be enough to retain customers.

While Jarden prefers ANZ to the other banks with its overweight rating, its price target of $35.50 is still below the current level of $37.36.

ANZ is also paying a 4.5% dividend yield.

The bank recently announced that its cash profit for the quarter ended 30 June was up just 1% on the quarterly average of the half-year ended 31 March.

At the time, ANZ Chief Executive Officer Nuno Matos said:

As we release our third quarter update, we remain on track to meet our Return on Tangible Equity and Cost-to-Income targets. In the quarter, we continued to improve productivity, margins and business volumes, including accelerating growth in business banking and returning home lending to system growth. Beyond our immediate priorities, we are investing now in customer experience, propositions, channel uplift and transaction banking. This will position us well for the second phase of our strategy beyond 2027, to accelerate growth and outperform the market.

Commonwealth Bank could drop sharply

Regarding Commonwealth Bank, Jarden is predicting a very steep share price fall from $151.18 currently to $90.

When releasing its FY26 results, CBA warned of difficult times ahead.

It said:

The Australian economy has remained resilient, supported by historically low unemployment and longer-term investment. However growth is slowing, with higher interest rates and inflation placing uneven pressure on household incomes and economic activity. Housing activity has softened from a high base. Application volumes appear to have stabilised in recent weeks. Businesses continue to manage higher input costs and supply uncertainty.

For National Australia Bank, Jarden is forecasting a share price of $29, compared to $38.55 currently. Meanwhile, for Westpac, it is predicting its share price to fall from $34.26 (at the time of writing) to $31.

The post How much could the big 4 banks' share prices fall? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

At the time of writing, the ASX bank shares are trading at $38.45. That's around 3% higher than a month ago, and 6% higher for the year-to-date.

For context, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) has fallen 4% over the past month, and is around 0.2% lower for the year-to-date.

ANZ is Australia's fourth-largest bank by market capitalisation. Its shares have outperformed the other three major banks over the past month and so far in 2026.

It's also the big-four bank of choice among brokers.

Market Index data shows the experts are split between a buy and hold rating on ANZ shares. But the $36.05 average target price implies a downside of around 6%, after the latest rally.

Brokers have a hold rating on National Australia Bank Ltd (ASX: NAB) shares, but rate Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) and Westpac Banking Corporation Ltd (ASX: WBC) as a sell or strong sell.

It's also one of the strongest passive income players.

What passive income does ANZ pay its shareholders?

As one of Australia's big four major banks, ANZ is generally considered to have stable earnings and predictable cash flow. 

While bank stocks are usually considered cyclical, ANZ's strong deposit base and diversified portfolio mean it is also relatively defensive in nature.

In mid-August, the bank reported cash profit of $1.9 billion, up 1% compared to the first-half quarterly average. While revenue was flat for the quarter, its net interest margin (NIM) edged up to 1.54% from 1.53%.

As of August, ANZ has achieved 73% of its gross cost-savings target of $800 million for FY26.

The bank's strong performance enables it to make reliable, regular dividend payments to shareholders. It does this every six months, in July and December. 

It also offers both a dividend reinvestment plan (DRP) and a bonus option plan (BOP) as alternatives to receiving cash dividends on ANZ ordinary shares.

ANZ's most recent dividend payment was an 83-cent per share interim dividend, franked at 75%, in July. 

The 83-cent dividend is the same payout that investors have received every six months since July 2024. However, the latest payout included an additional 5% franking credit (previously 70% or 65%).

Forecasts show that ANZ is expected to pay an annual dividend of $1.66 in FY26, and the same again in FY27. At the time of writing, that translates to a forward dividend yield of 4.3% for each year.

How many ANZ shares can I get with $10,000?

Using the $38.45 trading price at the time of writing, a $10,000 investment in ANZ shares would buy around 260 shares.

How much passive income can I earn from those shares in FY26 and FY27?

Assuming the bank pays the forecasted $1.66 dividend in FY26 and FY27, those 260 shares could earn around $431.60 in passive income each year.

The post If I invest $10,000 in ANZ shares, what passive income could I receive in FY27? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Some ASX bank stocks experienced a pullback over the past month, while others started trending higher. 

It looks like investors aren't sure what to make of rising inflation, higher interest rates, a weakening housing market, all against a backdrop of macroeconomic pressures and broad-based uncertainty.

What happened to the ASX 200 big four major banks in September?

Australia's banking sector is dominated by the big four banks: Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA), Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC), National Australia Bank Ltd (ASX: NAB), and ANZ Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: ANZ).  

Together, they make up around a quarter of the ASX 200 by market capitalisation. 

There wasn't any price sensitive news out of any of the big four banks in September, so share price fluctuations were due to shifts in investor sentiment.

At the close of the last day of the month, CBA shares were around 0.5% higher to $151.01 each. But the ASX 200 major bank's shares have dropped around 6% over the course of September. 

NAB shares also ended the month in the green, up slightly by around 0.1% for the day on Wednesday, at $39.15 a piece. NAB shares have been relatively stable over the past month, and ended around 1% higher than they started. 

ANZ shares, however, ended the last day of the month in the red. The shares fell around 0.5% to $38.31 on Wednesday afternoon. But over the past month, the bank stock has climbed around 3% higher.

Meanwhile, Westpac shares ended around 0.2% higher on Wednesday afternoon, at $35.07 each. Over the past month, the shares have risen around 1.5%.

What about the ASX 200 mid-tier banks?

It was a similar story among the ASX 200 mid-tier banks, too.

Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Ltd (ASX: BEN) closed around 0.5% higher on the last day of September, at $10.36 each. Over the month, the shares fell around 3%.

Bank of Queensland Ltd (ASX: BOQ) shares climbed slightly into the green, up around 0.2% to $6.61. They were also up around 1% over the course of September. 

While Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG) also tumbled around 0.5% on Wednesday, closing the month at $246.10 a piece. The bank shares were also down around 2% over the month.

Which ASX bank shares are a buy for October?

Macquarie shares were one of the poorest performing ASX bank shares in September. But it's still the only stock that brokers are bullish about going forward. Market Index data shows that the majority have a strong buy rating on Macquarie shares. The average $270.89 target price implies the shares have the potential to climb another 10% higher, at the time of writing.

Which ones have been rated as a sell?

The experts have had a strong sell rating on CBA shares for some time now. And there hasn't been a change in sentiment this month either. Market Index data shows the majority of brokers have a strong sell rating, and the $125.20 target price implies a downside of around 17%, at the time of writing. That's the largest forecasted downside of any of the ASX banks.

The experts also have a sell rating on Westpac shares. Market Index data shows the average $34.18 target price implies a downside of around 3%, at the time of writing.

Brokers are also bearish on the outlook for Bendigo and Adelaide Bank shares. Market Index data shows the majority have a sell rating, and the $10.06 average target price also implies a downside of around 3%.

And what shares do brokers rate as a hold?

The data also shows that the majority have a hold rating on NAB shares. The $39.88 average target price implies the shares have the potential to climb slightly, by around 2%, over the next 12 months.

It's a similar story for ANZ shares. Most brokers also have a hold stance on the major bank. But after a slightly stronger September, the $36.05 average target price now suggests the shares could fall by up to 6% over the next 12 months, at the time of writing.

BOQ shares are the last on the list. Again, the majority have a hold rating, and the $6.06 average target price implies a downside of around 8%, at the time of writing.

The post Are ASX 200 bank stocks a buy in October? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The ASX bank share typically has a generous dividend payout ratio and a fairly low price/earnings (P/E) ratio, resulting in a large dividend yield for investors.

In my view, Westpac shares offer investors a fairly similar investment setup as ANZ Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: ANZ) and National Australia Bank Ltd (ASX: NAB). However, Westpac typically generates more of its earnings from lending to households than the other two banks.

All three of the bank majors that I've mentioned have a higher dividend yield than Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA), though that's largely because CBA trades on a higher P/E ratio than the other major banks.

With the above in mind, let's take a look at what analysts are predicting for the ASX bank share in the years ahead.

FY26

We're now at the end of the Westpac 2026 financial year, which finishes on 30 September 2026. But we'll have to wait a few weeks to see what the ASX bank share actually achieved when it reports.

The latest update we've heard from the bank was the FY26 third-quarter update for the three weeks to June 2026.

It said it generated $1.8 billion of quarterly statutory net profit, which represented a 3% increase on the quarterly average of the FY26 first half. Its underlying net profit also came to $1.8 billion, resulting in a 2% year-over-year increase on the FY26 first half average.

Westpac noted that it continues to focus on simplifying its operations, improving the customer experience, and increasing productivity. The ASX bank share said its program, called UNITE, is progressing.

The ASX bank share also highlighted that its enterprise data has migrated to the cloud, that it has strengthened its data foundations, and that it supports greater use of analytics and artificial intelligence.

For the quarter, its net interest margin (NIM) – the profitability of its lending – was essentially stable, though rose slightly thanks to the higher interest rate environment, offset by competitive pressures in lending, the deposit mix and more savers qualifying for the savings bonus rate.

Westpac also highlighted continued operating momentum drove "strong customer deposit and loan growth". Lending increased by 2%, reflecting broad-based growth across the Australian portfolio including 4% in business, 3% in institutional and 2% in housing.

According to the projection on CMC Invest, the business is forecast to increase its dividend per Westpac share to $1.55. That translates into a FY26 grossed-up dividend yield of 6.3%, including franking credits, at the time of writing.

FY27

The ASX bank share is expected to continue the positive trajectory for the Westpac dividend in the 2027 financial year, along with a slight increase in earnings per share (EPS).

The projection on CMC Invest suggests the annual dividend per share could be hiked slightly to $1.585.

FY28

In the final financial year of this projection series, Westpac is forecast to raise its annual dividend per share to $1.64.

That means the ASX bank share could pay a FY28 grossed-up dividend yield of 6.7%, including franking credits, at the time of writing.

The post Here's the dividend forecast out to 2028 for Westpac shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

This ensures that you get the most benefit from compound interest on your savings, and can rest easy that you'll be able to afford a comfortable retirement.

What actually is a comfortable retirement?

What constitutes a comfortable retirement is different for everyone, but a decent benchmark is the Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia's (ASFA) retirement standard, which tallies up what it will cost for life's essentials and a few other costs which make up a comfortable existence.

These include being able to afford top-level health insurance, reliable internet, owning and maintaining a reasonable car, and enjoying leisure activities and occasional travel.

The standard does assume however that the retiree takes a part pension from the age of 67, and owns their own home.

The standard is currently set at $56,166 per year for singles and $78,998 for couples.

The good news if you're aiming for $1500 a week, or $78,000 per year in income from your retirement savings, is that this is comfortably above the retirement standard level for singles.

So what level of retirement savings would you need to generate this level of income?

If you were able to earn a 10% dividend yield on your portfolio, which I would argue is unlikely, you'd need superannuation savings of $780,000.

If you were earning just 5%, this would increase to $1.56 million.

I would argue that with the benefits of franking credits you'd be able to comfortably earn about 7.5% from dividends, meaning you'd need savings of $1.04 million.

Franking credits effectively pay a shareholder back a credit for the tax a company has already paid.

Given that retirees pay a 0% tax rate, this means the full 30%, for fully franked dividends, flows back to the shareholder.

In practical terms, a 5% dividend yield on a fully franked share becomes 7.14%.

Which shares deliver solid dividends?

In terms of companies that can deliver solid dividend yields, there are plenty to choose from.

Premier Investments Ltd (ASX: PMV) recently reported its full-year results. The retailer maintained its dividend, yielding 6.85%.

The Atlas Arteria Ltd (ASX: ALX) share price has slipped sharply recently, boosting its yield to 10.58%.

At the more blue-chip end, Westpac Banking Corporation (ASX: WBC) has a trailing yield of 4.39%, and Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS) pays 4.36%.

As you can see there are plenty of options for shares which deliver a decent dividend yield.

And if you think your superannuation could use a top-up, it's worth looking into non-concessional contributions, which can be a tax-effective way to increase your retirement savings.

The post How much is needed in superannuation for $1500 in weekly passive income? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Here's the latest out of Fortescue Ltd (ASX: FMG), Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC), and CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL) shares, and what brokers expect for each of the stocks next.

Brokers rate CSL shares as a BUY

CSL shares rebounded strongly through August and have continued climbing higher in September. Over the past month, the ASX biotech stock has climbed around 6% higher, and it's now also up 6% for the year to date, having regained earlier losses shed in the first quarter of 2026. At the time of writing, the shares are trading at $182.85.

The shares rebounded off the back of a strong FY26 result in August, when the company posted total revenue and NPAT well ahead of guidance. Management described FY26 as a 'reset year', with FY27 marking a return to growth.

This, combined with a sectorwide rotation back into ASX healthcare shares over the past month, has helped reignite investor confidence in the company and its potential for future growth.

The experts are still very optimistic, too. TradingView data shows the majority of analysts (11 out of 19) have a buy/strong buy rating on the shares. But after the latest strong rally, the $182.85 target price is flat, where the shares are trading at the time of writing. 

Brokers rate Fortescue shares as a HOLD

Fortescue shares have slumped lower in September, continuing a run of losses shed since early June. At the time of writing, the shares are trading at $16.26, which is about 8% lower than a month ago and roughly 26% lower year to date.

The mining shares have been hit by headwinds from volatile iron ore prices, and conflict in the Middle East has also put downward pressure on the Fortescue share price. Last month, the miner posted a mixed FY26 result, which didn't help reignite confidence either.

Brokers are reserved about where the share price could go next. TradingView data shows the majority of analysts have a hold rating on Fortescue shares. Although, after the latest share price slump, the $17.73 average target price implies the shares could still climb another 9% higher over the next 12 months, at the time of writing.

Brokers rate Westpac shares as a SELL

Westpac shares have had a mixed month. The ASX bank shares have swung between $35.04 and $33.85 throughout September as the market tries to come to terms with the latest inflation data, a weakening property market, and future interest rate increases.

At the time of writing, Westpac shares are trading for $34.92 a piece. They've climbed 1% over the past month but are still down around 10% year to date.

Westpac's third-quarter FY26 update, posted last month, was good on the surface, but investors were spooked by the bank's red flags around weaker mortgage demand. Westpac said mortgage application volumes declined throughout the period as competition intensified and borrowers continued to navigate interest rate uncertainty. It also said it expects mortgage growth to continue to be challenging.

TradingView data shows that the experts are bearish about the outlook for Westpac shares. The majority (nine out of 16) have a sell/strong sell rating on the shares. The average target price of $33.42 implies a downside of around 4% at the time of writing.

The post Buy, hold, sell: Fortescue, Westpac, CSL shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

After climbing as high as 8,697 points shortly after the open, the benchmark has since slipped back.

The ASX 200 is currently up just 0.04% at around 8,682 points, leaving it pretty much where it started the day.

It's also a mixed session across the market, with 87 shares higher, 101 lower and 12 unchanged.

There are some big moves among individual shares, but investors also have one eye on this afternoon's interest rate decision.

That could make things a lot more interesting later today.

So, let's take a look at what's happening.

Tech shares steal the show

The S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) is one of the strongest areas of the market today, up 2.41%.

Megaport Ltd (ASX: MP1) shares are 12% higher after announcing three new AI infrastructure contracts worth a combined $978.6 million.

The company also upgraded its FY27 revenue guidance to between $720 million and $810 million.

Codan Ltd (ASX: CDA) shares have also jumped around 18% to $60.84 after upgrading its earnings guidance.

Elsewhere, South32 Ltd (ASX: S32) shares are up 3.18% to $5.04, while QBE Insurance Group Ltd (ASX: QBE) has climbed 1.43% to $23.44.

However, those gains are being offset by weakness elsewhere in the market.

Banks weigh on the market

The major banks aren't offering much support today, with all four trading lower.

Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) shares are down 0.67% to $151.45, and National Australia Bank Ltd (ASX: NAB) has slipped 0.61% to $41.70.

Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC) shares are down 0.50% to $38.15, with ANZ Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: ANZ) having fallen 0.62% to $37.04.

Wall Street falls overnight

Our share market also received a weak lead from Wall Street overnight.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJX: .DJI) fell 0.67%, while the S&P 500 (SP: .INX) dropped 0.77%.

The Nasdaq Composite (NASDAQ: .IXIC) fell the most, down 0.92%.

US Treasury yields also moved higher, with the 10-year yield climbing above 5.2%.

All eyes on the RBA

The big event is still to come, with the RBA set to announce its latest interest rate decision at 2:30pm AEST.

The cash rate currently stands at 4.35% after three increases in 2026, with another rise widely expected today.

Investors also received new household spending figures this morning.

Spending was flat in August after climbing 1.1% in July, while annual growth remained at 6.8%.

The RBA decision, and what Governor Michele Bullock says afterwards, could have a much bigger say in where the market finishes today.

The post ASX 200 holds steady as investors brace for a big afternoon appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

When it comes to building a reliable passive income stream, many ASX investors find themselves comparing household names like Woodside Energy and Westpac. Both are titans in their respective fields—energy and banking. But when deciding between Woodside shares and Westpac shares for passive income, the differences in dividend profiles, business models, and recent momentum can really shape the call. Let's take a closer look at how these two stocks stack up.

The case for Woodside

Woodside is Australia's largest independent oil and gas company, producing and marketing energy both here and offshore. With a history stretching back to 1954 and a significant boost from its recent merger with BHP's petroleum assets, Woodside has evolved into a global energy player. According to its most recent public description, Woodside operates a diverse portfolio of offshore platforms and floating production vessels, and its shares have established themselves among the biggest names on the ASX.

For income-focused investors, Woodside's fundamentals stand out in a few ways:

• Dividend yield: 5.24%, fully franked, which remains attractive compared to many blue chips.
• P/E ratio: 13.81, offering moderate earnings multiples for the sector.
• Recent returns: Its year-to-date return is sitting at a robust 38.9%, pointing to strong recent share price momentum.

Woodside's dividend history also confirms consistent and fully franked payouts, and its most recent annual dividend is $1.63 per share.

The case for Westpac

Founded in 1817, Westpac is one of Australia's four biggest banks and a major fixture on the ASX. It operates across multiple banking and wealth management lines, from retail and business banking to specialist financial services, both locally and across the Tasman. Through brands like St.George and Bank of Melbourne, Westpac has become a cornerstone for many Aussies' day-to-day finances.

On the passive income front, Westpac offers:

• Dividend yield: 4.43%, fully franked—solid, though a step below Woodside's headline rate.
• P/E ratio: 17.13, which is somewhat higher (i.e. more expensive earnings multiple) than Woodside, though this is not unusual for a major bank.
• Earnings per share: $2.029, comfortably supporting the current $1.54 annual dividend.

Westpac has also maintained a long and stable record of paying dividends—every single one fully franked in the last two decades—and remains a stalwart income stock for retired and dividend-focused investors.

Valuation comparison

Here's how the key numbers stack up right now:

Recent share price performance

Comparing recent share price history up to 24 September 2026:

• Woodside Energy: Closed at $31.61, up 1.54% on the day. The share price is up 38.9% year to date—a very strong run.
• Westpac: Closed at $34.13, down 1.81% on the day. Year to date, Westpac shares are actually down 8.0%, showing some negative momentum recently.

Which is the better buy?

If I'm looking for a passive income pick today, I'd lean toward Woodside. Here's why: Right now, Woodside offers a higher fully franked dividend yield than Westpac, with dividends underpinned by healthy earnings (as suggested by the EPS and payout ratio). The oil and gas operator is also showing strong recent price momentum, up almost 39% this year, while pockets of the banking sector—including Westpac—are lagging, with Westpac shares down about 8% over the same stretch.

Westpac still offers a reliable, fully franked dividend and is a classic income play. But with Woodside's higher income yield and noticeably better recent share performance, my pick for new passive income dollars would be Woodside Energy. Of course, no dividend stock is risk-free—energy profits can be cyclical, and banks have their own headwinds. Still, based on the latest data, the edge goes to Woodside for now.

The post Woodside vs Westpac: Which ASX share is better for passive income? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.