Stock Market Today: Live Updates 15.07.2026

Rolls-Royce or Lloyds: Which Stock Looks Cheaper Now?

July 16, 2026, 3:44 AM EDT. Shares in Rolls-Royce Holdings trade at a far richer price compared to Lloyds Banking Group. Rolls-Royce is on a P/E of 47.3, versus 16.1 for Lloyds, showing the market prices in bigger growth hopes for Rolls-Royce but with more risk. On dividends, Lloyds pays out a lot more, with a 2025 yield seen at 3.2% and climbing to 3.8% in 2026, compared to Rolls-Royce’s trailing 0.7%. Lloyds’ price-to-book is just 1.35, while Rolls-Royce sits much higher at 43.8, a hangover from pandemic strain on its balance sheet. The two names sit in totally different sectors, making direct comparison tricky. Lloyds, a 261-year-old lender, stands out for income and stability right now, while Rolls-Royce, mostly in engineering and tech, will need stronger conditions to deliver on growth hopes.

Which offers better value, Rolls-Royce or …

Dateline Resources Lodges ASX Application for Quotation of 1.6M New Shares

July 16, 2026, 3:42 AM EDT. Dateline Resources Ltd (ASX: DTR) has applied to the ASX to quote 1,600,398 new fully paid ordinary shares, with effect from July 14, 2026. The new shares will increase Dateline’s listed capital and could affect share liquidity and ownership structure. The company said the filing comes as part of its normal equity management, likely tied to existing security conversions or exercises. Dateline, which works in resources, said it remains within ASX Listing Rules and is focused on market disclosure. Daily trading volume averages more than 13 million shares, market cap stands at A$708.8 million. The current technical view is sell.

Dateline Resources Seeks ASX Quotation for…

CSL ASX:CSL Drops 29% YTD; Revenue at A$14.8bn, Margin Holds

July 16, 2026, 3:34 AM EDT. CSL Ltd ASX:CSL shares have fallen 29.08% so far this year. The biotech group-split into CSL Behring, CSL Seqirus, and CSL Vifor-booked annual revenue of A$14.8 billion, up at a 12.8% CAGR across three years. Gross margin landed at 52.1%. Net profit edged up with 3.6% CAGR to A$2.64 billion last year. CSL’s net debt is A$10.53 billion, showing ongoing leverage. The company, known for steady dividends, is still in focus as costs climb and financials hold steady.

A quick way to value the CSL share price

Diageo Shares Fall 6% in 2024 as Sir Dave Lewis Confronts Slowdown

July 16, 2026, 3:32 AM EDT. Diageo’s stock is down 6% this year. CEO Sir Dave Lewis stepped in with big expectations, but the company is still struggling. Sales growth has slowed-Gen Z are drinking less and more buyers are choosing premium brands, the ‘premiumisation’ trend. Earnings per share dropped. Net debt stood at $21.7 billion by the end of 2025, more than three times EBITDA. But Diageo still controls premium brands that bring in $13 billion in global sales. Analysts say shares offer value, with a price target 27% above the current price after the group sold a key African asset. Investors are cautious, waiting for signs of a turnaround.

Down 6% since January, can Sir Dave still …

Analysts See 25% Upside for BAE Systems LON:BA. Shares by 2027

July 16, 2026, 3:30 AM EDT. BAE Systems shares are trading at 1,833p, about 22% below their 52-week high. Most analysts remain upbeat, with 13 of 21 brokers rating the stock Buy or Strong Buy. The average 12-month target is 2,295p, which points to roughly 25% upside from here. That means £5,000 invested now could turn into £6,250 after a year, not counting dividends. For 2027, consensus has EPS reaching 94.7p, so the price could hit 2,295p if its P/E ratio moves up to 24 with ongoing geopolitical strains. On the downside, if that multiple stays lower, analysts see fair value between 1,894p and 2,083p. Expectations for global defense spending and the UK’s recent £15bn pledge support the positive view.

By mid-2027, analysts expect £5,000 in BAE…

ASX 200 ends near flat, miners and energy slide as financials, communications lift

July 16, 2026, 3:28 AM EDT. The S&P/ASX 200 finished just 0.0045% lower at 8,840.7 after a choppy session. Mining stocks dropped 1.58% and energy gave up 1.53%. Gold, staples, and utilities also finished weaker. Financial shares added 0.88% and both communications and consumer discretionary sectors advanced more than 1%. AMP Ltd surged 9.83% on strong earnings. Mesoblast, REA Group and Tabcorp Holdings were also among the main movers. Overnight, Wall Street gained with the Dow up 0.29% and Nasdaq up 0.62%, while the local market lagged.

Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today

ASX 200 Closes Flat as BHP Drops on Copper Cut, IPO Activity Rises in FY26

July 16, 2026, 3:26 AM EDT. The S&P/ASX 200 finished unchanged at 8840.70, held down by BHP shedding almost 3% after it cut its FY27 copper production forecast to 1.65-1.8 million tonnes from 1.95 million. Iron ore output at BHP hit a record, but investors focused on the weaker copper numbers. REA Group saw a 5% jump as property listings in Australia grew. Ora Banda lost 2% with higher gold production costs. Macquarie Technology Group moved up after buying land for a $240 million tech campus. In the region, South Korea’s Kospi dropped 6.4% on weakness in semiconductor stocks. ASX IPOs bounced back in FY26, with 100 new listings, up 45% from a year ago, bringing in $91 billion and adding $32.6 billion in market cap-the strongest since FY22.

Closing Bell: ASX closes flat as IPO activ…

Azzuro pushes Red Hill copper-gold further; Culpeo kicks off Chile IP survey

July 16, 2026, 3:12 AM EDT. Azzuro Resources (ASX:AZ9) pushed mineralisation at Red Hill in Mongolia to almost 550 metres of strike, with assays showing high copper grades up to 11.94% and 1.63g/t gold. Metallurgical tests and more drilling are next. Culpeo Minerals (ASX:CPO) launched a 3D IP survey at the Fortuna copper-gold site in Chile, chasing deeper sulphide targets under current mineralisation. Shares moved up on the survey start. The work supports current drilling at El Quillay South, helping refine priority targets. Both companies stick to plans to grow copper-gold projects through steady exploration in key regions.

Resources Top 5: Azzuro strikes elevated M…

Ocado Sticks With Cash Flow Outlook After Tough First Half

July 16, 2026, 3:11 AM EDT. Ocado Group PLC kept its forecast for positive cash flow in the back half of 2024, even after a soft first half. The UK online grocery tech firm pointed to higher costs and more operational snags hitting cash. Still, executives say they’re holding the line on full-year targets. Ocado shares slipped as some investors weighed the risks in the turnaround story. The company pointed to ongoing cost-cutting and efficiency steps as its paths back to profit.

Ocado sticks to guidance despite mixed fir…

Experian Q1 revenue up 10%, sticks to annual outlook

July 16, 2026, 3:10 AM EDT. Experian PLC said first-quarter revenue rose 10% as it entered its 2027 financial year, and the company is sticking with its full-year guidance. The credit data firm pointed to steady business momentum and kept its forecast steady even as markets remain uncertain. Revenue growth came from continued demand for its data and analytics offerings. Investors took the statement as a sign of stability for the company during a stretch of sector headwinds.

Experian maintains full-year outlook after…

Investors Turn to New Homes as Negative Gearing Changes Hit Older Properties

July 16, 2026, 2:56 AM EDT. Australia’s 2.3 million residential property investors are moving towards new builds as Labor’s negative gearing ban on existing homes kicks in next July. The policy means negative gearing, which lets investors offset losses against their taxable income, now applies only to new housing. With first-home buyers making up 40.7% of the new home market, investors-at 19.9%-are stepping up their presence. Experts say investors want tax breaks, pointing to about $20,000 a year in depreciation write-offs and bigger tax-deductible costs, especially as banks tighten lending on older homes. Lenders and strategists say some are also considering commercial real estate, which isn’t covered by the changes. The move could put more pressure on housing affordability for first-home buyers, raising questions about the government’s push to rebalance the market.

Investors invade first-home buyer estates …

Christie Group (AIM: CTG) Nearly Doubles Profit as Revenue Jumps 19.2%

July 16, 2026, 2:55 AM EDT. Christie Group said revenue rose 19.2% to £70.6 million in 2025, with operating profit almost doubling to £6.9 million. The AIM-listed company pushed earnings per share up 87.9% to 19.37p. Christie ended the year with £9.4 million net funds and no external debt. Return on capital employed was 39%, putting it in the top 5% of London-listed firms. The Professional & Financial Services arm led the way, up 22% on repeat business. The group lifted its full-year dividend 57% to 3.50p, though the 2.6% yield underlines a strategy tilted to growth. Shares change hands at 7 times historic earnings.

Christie Group: decisive reshaping pays di…

FirstCash Ups Ramsdens Bid to £232 Million, Calls It Final Offer

July 16, 2026, 2:41 AM EDT. FirstCash bumped its takeover offer for Ramsdens to 684p per share, now valuing the UK pawnbroker at up to £232 million. The revised bid comes after talks with shareholders and raises the cash component to 675p, plus up to 9p in possible dividends. That’s up from the original 600p offer on June 23. It’s a 51% premium to Ramsdens’ closing price before the approach, and 80% above its 12-month average. FirstCash said this is its final offer, unless a rival offer or rare regulatory events change the situation.

FirstCash sweetens Ramsdens takeover to £2…

Dotdigital Adds Loyalty Program, AI Agents to Its Marketing Platform

July 16, 2026, 2:39 AM EDT. Dotdigital said it rolled out two new products Tuesday, launching a loyalty tool for Shopify merchants and adding AI-driven agents inside its core platform. Merchants can build and run reward programs with the Dotdigital Loyalty tool, which connects to wider marketing efforts and includes tiered perks and analytics. The new AI agents let marketers set up campaigns using plain language, which the company said cuts down on time to launch. Dotdigital said both products build on its MCP server released earlier this year, which ties into major AI models such as ChatGPT to improve access to data and insights. CEO Milan Patel said these features extend AI use and could drive cross-sell and capture more share of marketing budgets.

Dotdigital launches loyalty product and AI…

UK takes over British Steel, puts Scunthorpe plant under state control to secure industry

July 16, 2026, 2:27 AM EDT. The UK government has taken British Steel into public hands, moving to nationalise its Scunthorpe plant as it tries to safeguard the steelmaking industry and keep about 2,700 jobs. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer called the move key for the UK’s industrial strength. Jingye Group, the Chinese owner, says it was losing £700,000 a day and now wants compensation, but officials might cap or deny any payout. Fresh legislation gave ministers the legal cover to intervene and secure steelmaking for economic reasons. The move comes after warnings over possible plant closures and the threat to UK-made virgin steel.

Government brings British Steel under publ…

REA Group (ASX: REA) jumps 6% as listings climb, even with weaker prices

July 16, 2026, 2:26 AM EDT. Shares in REA Group (ASX: REA) gained more than 6% after the company reported a 13% rise in new property listings on realestate.com.au for June. Darwin led with a 31.9% jump, Perth was up 25%, and Brisbane rose 22.4%. House prices still slipped for the third month in a row, with both Sydney and Perth down 0.5%. REA’s chief economist Anne Flaherty said more listings are tied to a cooling market and incoming capital gains tax changes starting July 2027. Sydney and Melbourne prices are expected to drop through 2026, but most regions hold above last year’s values. The stock is off 32% over the past year, but with its market position and earnings growth, some see REA as a pick for longer-term investors as the housing market shifts.

REA Group (ASX:REA) share price jumps 6% o…

IHG to Cancel 1,000 Shares Repurchased for Up to $160 Each

July 16, 2026, 2:25 AM EDT. InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) bought back 1,000 ordinary shares on July 15, 2026, through Goldman Sachs International on the London Stock Exchange. The shares were picked up at prices between $156.60 and $160.10, with an average of $158.56 per share, under authority from the May 2025 AGM. IHG says it will cancel the shares, cutting the total in circulation. After the deal, IHG has 148,612,282 ordinary shares outstanding, not counting 5,431,782 shares held in treasury. Management says the buyback is part of its capital return plan cleared by shareholders.

IHG Intends to Cancel 1,000 Shares Bought …

NatWest, Bellway, Lloyds Seen Delivering 10-20% Dividend Growth

July 16, 2026, 2:24 AM EDT. NatWest Group, Bellway, and Lloyds Banking Group are all projected to bump up dividends by 10%-20% each year through 2027. NatWest lifted its dividend by 51% in 2025; analysts see its yield at about 7% by 2027 and possibly 11% when share buybacks are included. Bellway expects its dividend to hit 93.9p in 2027, taking the yield up from 2.6% to 3.8%, though higher mortgage costs and squeezed margins remain a challenge. Lloyds Banking Group is guiding for steady dividend increases out to 2027. These three are flagged as options for income hunters, even as the UK economy stays uncertain.

3 second-income shares tipped to grow divi…

UK Looks to Private Equity for London IPO Push as FTSE Listings Lag

July 16, 2026, 2:11 AM EDT. The UK government is talking with private equity players to help turn around London’s IPO drought. More companies are picking New York or staying private, with London still missing most listings despite a small bump earlier this year. Private equity funds raised $62.1 billion globally in 2025, up 53% from last year, but few deals are landing on UK exchanges. London continues to face valuation gaps with US stocks, Brexit-driven freezes, and tough competition for pension money. Some rules have been loosened, but the City is still a step behind Wall Street in trading volume and depth. Investors eye more private equity-backed names going public in London for hints of change.

UK government courts private equity leader…

Alpha HPA (ASX:A4N) Shares Slide as Downtrend Continues

July 16, 2026, 2:10 AM EDT. Alpha HPA Ltd (ASX:A4N) dropped 3.48% to AUD 0.56 on July 16, 2026, bringing the year’s loss to 37.64%. The company, valued at about AUD 842 million, works in the Australian Materials sector, making high purity alumina for lithium-ion batteries, LEDs, semiconductors and other advanced tech. The advanced materials market faces long timelines and heavy capital needs, shaped by tech change and industry demand. Traders pointed out daily swings often mirror investor mood and sector patterns more than company moves. Some analysts said to take a long view, weighing Alpha HPA’s project rollouts, commercial traction and prospects for steady growth.

Can Alpha HPA (ASX:A4N) Reverse Its Longer…

Australia Plans Tighter Renewable Power Rules for AI Data Centres

July 16, 2026, 2:08 AM EDT. The Australian Prime Minister is moving to toughen rules for big AI data centres, calling for mandatory energy and environmental standards. The plan would require centres to match their energy use with new renewable supply, pay for grid connections, and use less water. That’s a shift from current voluntary guidelines to laws with enforcement. The government says the step targets high power costs and emissions. The Business Council pushed back, saying it could scare off investment. The move would guarantee business for renewable suppliers and grid builders, which could lift those stocks. The bill is likely early next year, but states still need to sign on and the timing is up in the air.

Canberra’s Cover Charge

Data Centre Growth Puts Pressure on Australian Farmland

July 16, 2026, 1:53 AM EDT. Australia’s data centre sector keeps moving into prime farmland areas across New South Wales and Victoria, putting food production and property values at risk. Digital Agriculture Services sees $21 billion of top-quality land inside data centre zones, with $2.74 billion in rural deals expected in 2025. Agritech co-founder Sarah Gorman called this a ‘third wave’ risk, adding to existing land and climate problems. She urged better planning to prevent shortages and higher prices. Data centres are key to a projected $600 billion AI economy by 2030, but the land rush is drawing on struggles seen in the U.S., stirring up more local resistance.

Data centre boom puts prime Australian far…

Hansen Technologies (ASX:HSN) Falls 0.24% as Broader Market Moves Weigh

July 16, 2026, 1:38 AM EDT. Shares of Hansen Technologies Ltd (ASX:HSN) slipped 0.24% to AUD 4.15 on July 16, 2026. The move tracked broader market swings, with no specific news from the company. The stock has lost 26.16% in the last year. Hansen, worth AUD 857 million, sells enterprise software for billing and customer management. Most of the business comes from long-term corporate contracts, driving recurring license and support revenue. Traders say daily price action here often ties back to sector rotation or shifts in risk appetite. The company is navigating pressures to keep clients and innovate in a crowded software market.

What Does Hansen Technologies' (ASX:HSN) L…

China's Growth Slows as Exports Boom, Home Demand Stalls

July 16, 2026, 1:28 AM EDT. China posted 5% growth for H1 2026, at the upper end of its 4.5-5% target. But June quarter growth slowed to 4.3%, the weakest pace since the pandemic. Exports jumped 27% from a year ago to $288 billion, mainly on AI-linked electronics, sending the trade surplus near $1.4 trillion. Still, China’s domestic economy is struggling. Private sector investment fell 8.5%. Retail sales barely moved, auto sales slid 16%, and property investment dropped again. President Xi Jinping keeps pushing for self-sufficiency, holding back oil exports and capping fuel prices, with higher energy costs blamed on Middle East conflict. With the property market weak and stimulus options limited, domestic demand looks even softer. The gap between strong exports and slow home growth is widening.

China’s economic divide is widening in era…

Gold Drops 4% in 2013 and Prompts Investor Questions on System Risks

July 16, 2026, 1:27 AM EDT. Back in April 2013, gold tumbled 4%, setting off a conversation that got one investor to look harder at the financial system. The chat focused on things like what the Federal Reserve does, interest rates, and currencies-raising the point that gold can fall even when big-picture fundamentals look strong. The investor started digging into monetary policy, possible manipulation, and regulatory shifts like Operation Twist. New rules on trust and retirement taxes, capital gains, and negative gearing have kept shaking things up, often in ways investors don’t expect. The episode pushed home how much hinges on who holds the levers and the risk of getting caught off guard when rules change.

The Lunch That Changed Everything

Lindsey Graham's Record Draws Scrutiny Over Special Interests, Lobbyist Power

July 16, 2026, 1:26 AM EDT. Senator Lindsey Graham is facing criticism over claims he put special interests first, with opponents pointing to ties to big Pharma, defense contractors, and pro-Israel lobbying. Graham has thrown support behind Israel’s Netanyahu government. Some say this is part of a broader shift, with the political system now seen as tilting toward a Deep State made up of wealthy elites and bureaucrats, not ordinary taxpayers. Groups like AIPAC backed challengers who unseated lawmakers skeptical of U.S. military aid for Israel, making it harder for elected officials to stand up to lobbyists. Heavy spending on ads and PR from these groups makes it tough for voters to tell which candidates actually represent them.

A Loyal Servant— but Not of the People

CGT in Focus for CSL, Real Estate and Super in Retirement

July 16, 2026, 1:25 AM EDT. The latest Australian Retirement Podcast from Rask looks at Capital Gains Tax (CGT) and what it means for people heading into retirement. Hosts talk about what retiring investors need to think about when selling assets like shares, including CSL, property, or pulling out money from superannuation. They remind listeners to check their own situation and get advice before acting, warning that CGT can catch out people planning for retirement.

The CGT trap: CSL, property and super in r…

ASX Logs 100 New Listings in FY26 as IPOs Rebound

July 16, 2026, 1:24 AM EDT. The Australian Securities Exchange ASX landed 100 new listings in FY26, the best tally since FY22. The market pulled off a jump in IPO activity even as higher rates, inflation, and global uncertainty weighed on sentiment.

ASX registers 100 new listings in FY26

Condor Energy wraps feasibility work at Peru’s Piedra Redonda gas find

July 16, 2026, 1:23 AM EDT. Condor Energy (ASX: CND) said it finished an independent feasibility study for its Piedra Redonda offshore gas project in Peru. The study, done by Agile Energy, points to a workable plan for developing about 1 Tcf of certified 2C contingent resources. These aren’t yet classified as commercially recoverable until more work is done. Two options for shallow-water development were reviewed, with production targeted between 30 and 150 million standard cubic feet a day, using an offshore-to-onshore system. Condor called the study a key step as it negotiates gas sales, looks for partners, and applies for contract licences. The company still holds exclusive rights in the area. “Piedra Redonda ranks as one of the largest undeveloped assets on the west coast of South America,” managing director Serge Hayon said, and is making progress towards commercialisation.

Condor Energy Completes Piedra Redonda Gas…

Pro Medicus (ASX: PME) pulls in strong cash, keeps growing in US healthcare market

July 16, 2026, 1:22 AM EDT. Pro Medicus Limited (ASX: PME) continues to impress with fast organic growth, solid profit margins, plenty of recurring revenue, and steady cash flow, all with no debt on the books. The group’s main product, Visage 7, is a medical imaging software platform, letting radiologists handle complex scans like CT and MRI more quickly. Its streaming technology means image manipulation happens on the fly-no need to download giant files. Hospitals get faster workflows and can set priorities. About 90% of PME’s revenue comes from North America, and it’s still pushing into new fields like cardiology and digital pathology. The stock is valued close to $20 billion, even after dropping 42% from its 52-week high. Many investors call Pro Medicus a standout, though it has to keep up its pace to maintain that price tag.

Pro Medicus Limited (ASX: PME): the best c…

Redcastle Resources (ASX:RC1) starts mining at Redcastle Reef and Queen Alexandra, first gold revenue eyed next quarter

July 16, 2026, 1:07 AM EDT. Redcastle Resources (ASX:RC1) has moved ahead with mining at its Redcastle Reef and Queen Alexandra sites in the Eastern Goldfields of Western Australia. The company said it is now stockpiling ore while mining, looking for first gold revenue next quarter after haulage and processing. Redcastle is using a capital-light JV structure to cut upfront spend and avoid shareholder dilution. Its footprint is about 151km2, now covering 86 live and pending tenements after adding TBone and Kilkenny. Chairman Dr. Ray Shaw said FY2027 should be a growth period, with the plan to fund future exploration from new revenue and cut back on external capital raises.

Redcastle Resources turns miner as first g…

Altair Minerals Kicks Off Larger Drill Program at Greater Oko in Guyana

July 16, 2026, 1:06 AM EDT. Altair Minerals is rolling out a bigger exploration effort at the Greater Oko gold project in Guyana, with plans for 75,000 metres of RC and diamond drilling across both new and existing targets. The company is bringing in two new RC rigs alongside a diamond rig. Altair plans to drill 45,000m at South Oko and 15,000m at North Peters, looking to go deeper and check historic results. The program is funded by a $28.2 million investment from Endeavour Mining and will run 18 months. Plans call for more regional work, with expanded camps and larger field teams. Greater Oko sits next to a 5.9-million-ounce deposit set for production within 18 months, as Guyana gains ground in global gold exploration.

Altair Minerals Launches Expanded Explorat…

WiseTech Global ASX:WTC Drops 48% This Year as Investors Weigh 2026 Value

July 16, 2026, 12:52 AM EDT. WiseTech Global Ltd ASX:WTC shares are down 48.14% so far this year. The logistics software provider, founded in 1994, is known for its Cargowise platform used by leading freight forwarders. The company posted $1.04 billion in revenue in the last 12 months, with revenue up at a 27.1% CAGR over three years. It reported an 84% gross margin. Net profit jumped to $263 million from $108 million three years ago, marking 34.5% CAGR. WiseTech holds $19 million in net cash and keeps its debt-to-equity ratio low at 4.7%. These numbers set the stage for how the market values WTC looking ahead to 2026.

Are WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX:WTC) shares g…

Peregrine Gold starts exploration at Pilgangoora North, Rocklea in Pilbara

July 16, 2026, 12:51 AM EDT. Peregrine Gold (ASX:PGD) has kicked off gold exploration at its Pilgangoora North and Rocklea sites in the Pilbara, Western Australia. Work includes geological mapping, rock chip sampling, and stream sediment sampling to find drill targets. At Pilgangoora North, the company is following up on anomalous gold readings from old sediment data reviewed late last year. At Rocklea, Peregrine covers about 1,250 km2 after securing recent pastoral approvals, aiming at geologic units that could host gold. The company is pushing ahead with its Pilbara gold pipeline, waiting on approvals for new gold and iron ore prospects after recent activity near Capricorn and Peninsula. Stream sampling gathers material from creeks and rivers to spot mineral anomalies for future work.

Peregrine kicks off gold hunt at Pilgangoo…

Superannuation targets for comfortable retirement at 67

July 16, 2026, 12:38 AM EDT. Superannuation needs close watching if you want a comfortable retirement. The Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia pegs annual spending on comfort at about AUD 55,923 for singles and AUD 78,566 for couples, with home ownership and some Age Pension in the mix. For that, singles should be looking at around AUD 630,000 in super by 67; couples, about AUD 730,000. ASFA sets milestones: AUD 178,000 at 40, AUD 313,500 at 50, and AUD 604,500 at 65. These give Australians a yardstick as they try to keep pace, but final numbers depend on living costs and lifestyle.

How much superannuation do I need to retir…

ASX Seen Higher as Oil Jumps on Middle East Tension; BHP Keeps 2026 Targets

July 16, 2026, 12:35 AM EDT. ASX futures point up after oil climbed overnight, with US strikes on Iranian military sites fueling fresh supply worries. BHP Group kept fiscal 2026 production guidance unchanged, helping steady nerves after recent volatility. Oil’s move has traders watching energy and resource stocks as Middle East uncertainty lifts commodity prices.

ASX Preview: Australian Shares to Rise as …

ASX Penny Stocks In Focus For July 2026: Clover, Caravel, Metal Powder Works

July 16, 2026, 12:32 AM EDT. The ASX is holding above 8,800 as traders watch U.S. tariffs. Penny stocks are in play. Clover Corporation Limited, capped at A$140.33 million, reported 96.3% earnings growth and trades below estimated value. Caravel Minerals Limited at A$136.9 million is still pre-revenue but is cutting losses and looks financially stable. Metal Powder Works Limited, valued at A$345.07 million, develops metal powders for advanced manufacturing. These names stand out in July 2026 for those looking at smaller, less established ASX companies with growth potential in different sectors.

ASX Penny Stocks To Watch In July 2026

Regis Resources ASX:RRL Falls as McPhillamys Project Hits Regulatory Roadblock

July 16, 2026, 12:29 AM EDT. Regis Resources Ltd ASX:RRL shares slipped 1.28% to $6.17 after the company hit regulatory trouble at its McPhillamys gold project in New South Wales. The NSW Environment Minister’s decision raised doubts around future growth. Regis runs several gold mines, including in the Duketon district and owns 30% of Tropicana. Near-term earnings will depend on how Duketon and Tropicana perform, but McPhillamys is still a swing factor for strategy. Some traders say today’s price move could be about more than just news on the project, but longer-term, regulators will be key for RRL.

RRL (ASX:RRL) Shares Under Pressure Today:…

ASX Midday: Telstra Lifts Communication Services, Materials Fall on BHP Slide

July 16, 2026, 12:26 AM EDT. ASX communication services rose more than 1% at midday Monday, mostly on moves in Telstra Group. Materials dropped 2% as BHP Group fell. Sectors showed different trends while the market stayed choppy. Investors balanced tech services gains with weakness in mining and commodities names.

ASX Midday Sector Update: Communication Se…

Downing Street brings in private equity bosses on London IPO woes

July 16, 2026, 12:23 AM EDT. Downing Street is calling private equity bosses to help fix London’s IPO problems. The UK government wants to see more portfolio companies list after a wave of exits from the FTSE. Officials are worried London looks less attractive as a venue for new listings compared to other global markets. They’re looking for ways to boost confidence and get more companies to go public. The talks show ministers are trying to shore up London’s position with investors.

Downing Street calls in private equity bos…

Odyssey Gold (ASX:ODY) posts strong gold hits at Shackle and Bollard in Tuckanarra drill work

July 16, 2026, 12:20 AM EDT. Odyssey Gold (ASX:ODY) has reported strong grades from first-pass drilling at its Tuckanarra project in Western Australia. At Shackle, assays included 3m at 16.1g/t gold. Bollard drilling hit 15m at 3.9g/t, backing up extensions of mineralisation. The company said these results will feed into its next resource update and ongoing mining studies. Tuckanarra totals 451,000 ounces at 2.2g/t in indicated and inferred resources. Proximity to nearby processing is seen as a plus. The shallow, high-grade intercepts sit just under old workings, and Odyssey flagged scope for early-stage production.

High-grade gold find as Odyssey sails Tuck…

CBA ASX:CBA Faces Valuation Questions as PE Jumps Above Sector Average

July 16, 2026, 12:12 AM EDT. Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) is drawing investor focus as the stock trades on a price-earnings ratio of 30.3 times, well above the sector’s 19 times. That has put CBA at an adjusted value of about AUD 104.58, compared to the market price of AUD 170.86. Investors are comparing the share price and earnings per share using the PE ratio, but analysts warn that’s only part of the story. Dividend discount models are also in play, with banks’ stable payouts a factor. Australia’s major banks account for about 30% of the market by cap and carry implied government support, but returns are not locked in. Investors are watching these valuations closely to decide if CBA is worth a look this July.

Are CBA shares worth considering in July?

Bendigo & Adelaide Bank (BEN): 4 Metrics Investors Are Watching

July 16, 2026, 12:10 AM EDT. For Bendigo & Adelaide Bank Ltd (ASX: BEN), four numbers stand out for investors looking at the stock. BEN scores 2.9 out of 5 in employee satisfaction, lagging the sector’s 3.1 average. Its net interest margin is 1.9%, slightly above the 1.78% average for bigger ASX banks, with 87% of its revenue last year coming from lending. Return on equity hit 7.9%, showing moderate profit generation on shareholder equity. These numbers are in focus for anyone looking at BEN for long-term value in Australian retail banking.

BEN share price: 4 key metrics to consider

Flight Centre ASX:FLT shares down 17% this year; trades cheap on sales, yield up

July 16, 2026, 12:08 AM EDT. Flight Centre Travel Group Ltd ASX:FLT shares have dropped 17% in 2025 so far. The business, which runs in 80+ countries and sells everything from flights to hotel management and tours, keeps a global footprint and still draws loyal customers at its shops. The ASX Consumer Discretionary sector, which includes spending on non-essentials, has returned 3.32% per year over five years. FLT revenue rose 89.8% per year over three years, even with high interest rates. The stock now trades on a price-to-sales of 0.95x-far under its 3.42x five-year average, pointing to some discounting. The dividend yield is 3.2%, up from the 0.5% average in the last five years.

A deep dive into FLT shares

Argenica (ASX: AGN) says ARG-007 cuts brain damage in concussion tests

July 16, 2026, 12:06 AM EDT. Argenica Therapeutics (ASX: AGN) said its lead drug ARG-007 (xaranetide) cut neuroinflammation, oxidative stress and axonal damage with a single low-dose IV shot in a preclinical concussion model. Effects showed up in several brain regions within 30 minutes and stuck around for 11 days. Curtin University and the Perron Institute ran the study. Argenica said these results build on earlier ARG-007 data in TBI and could mean the drug works as a disease-modifying treatment for repeated mild traumatic brain injury, not just symptom relief. The company is looking at options for concussion, a gap in the market with no approved neuroprotective drugs, especially for athletes and defense.

Argenica Therapeutics Reports ARG-007 Neur…

BHP Drops 3% After FY27 Copper Guidance Misses Estimates

July 16, 2026, 12:04 AM EDT. BHP Group Ltd shares dropped 3% to $58.73 after the miner’s FY27 copper production outlook came in below market expectations. The company posted a solid June quarter, but investors focused on the weaker copper guidance. The miss raised questions about BHP’s growth and put pressure on the stock. Traders moved quickly as copper output remains a key factor for BHP and the mining sector.

BHP slips as FY27 copper guidance misses e…

HCM Invest Opens Applications for London Fitness and Wellness Pitch Event

July 15, 2026, 11:52 PM EDT. HCM Invest is now taking applications for pitching spots at its invite-only London event set for 21 October 2026. The gathering targets private equity firms, VCs, lenders, and strategic backers, as well as startups and operators looking for growth money in fitness, health, and wellness. The day will include keynotes, one-to-one meetings, and networking, all aimed at deal-making and partnerships. The meeting will run at EGYM HQ and sits alongside the HCM Summit, giving access to a select senior crowd from the industry. Liz Terry, CEO of Leisure Media, said the event would help the sector shift toward wellness, prevention, and longevity with new models and tech.

HCM Invest opens applications for pitching…

Buyers Get Edge as Australia’s Property Market Cools

July 15, 2026, 11:51 PM EDT. Australia’s housing market has turned quieter with fewer buyers in the mix and more room for negotiation as auction clearance rates dip in Sydney and Melbourne. Even with that softer tone, long-term demand remains strong off the back of a housing shortage, population growth and low rental vacancies. Reventon’s Chris Christofi said times like this can mean more buying opportunities, with sellers more likely to deal on price and quality stock coming up. Big listed developers such as Mirvac, Stockland, and Cedar Woods Properties are still trading on those same underlying fundamentals. The mood is also hitting the rental market, as investor hesitancy could leave fewer properties for lease. For now, tighter buyers may find value in a more cautious market.

Why uncertainty could be creating the best…

Aussie Skiers Keep Flocking to Aspen for Luxury Slopes

July 15, 2026, 11:50 PM EDT. Aspen, Colorado keeps pulling in Australian skiers season after season. The ski town sits at almost 2,450 meters and is known for its top snow, easy access, and higher-end feel. Aussies get four linked mountains-Ajax, Aspen Highlands, Snowmass, Buttermilk-on one lift pass, with shuttles running between them. Travelers land direct from Los Angeles and San Francisco at Aspen/Pitkin County Airport. The town is less crowded because it’s farther from Denver than other big-name spots. Aspen’s mix of luxury perks, dry snow, and its famous après-ski scene keeps Australians coming back.

Aspen’s winning formula keeps Australian s…

Lunnon Metals (ASX: LM8) Books Record Month at Lady Herial Pit, Delivers 3,473 oz Gold in June

July 15, 2026, 11:49 PM EDT. Lunnon Metals (ASX: LM8) said June was its strongest month yet at the Lady Herial open pit in Western Australia. The company mined over 62,000 tonnes of ore grading 1.73 grams per tonne and produced 3,473 ounces of gold, even after losing three days to rain. Total mining hit 106,000 bank cubic metres for the month. Under the offtake deal, St Ives, a Gold Fields unit, took delivery of almost 207,000 tonnes of ore containing 10,561 ounces of gold, with 9,613 ounces returned to Lunnon after 91% recovery. Lunnon brought in A$12 million from St Ives in June. Operating costs were about A$3 million. The first stage of the project is scheduled to complete in September. Management said cash flow is tracking close to forecast, though the gold price has slipped from $7,000 down to $5,750 per ounce.

Lunnon Metals Records Best Gold Production…

ClearVue Technologies Adds Professor Rebecca Yang to Board as Independent Director

July 15, 2026, 11:48 PM EDT. ClearVue Technologies (ASX:CPV) named Professor Rebecca Yang, an expert in sustainable building and renewable energy, as its new independent non-executive director. Yang’s background covers building-integrated photovoltaics and energy integration. ClearVue said the move fits its push on solar tech and net zero buildings. ClearVue hopes the hire will help strengthen its renewable energy business. The announcement appeared in a StockTake video by Tylah Tully. The company noted the content isn’t financial advice.

StockTake: Solar technology leader joins C…

IPH Ltd (ASX: IPH) Drops 18% in 12 Months, Dividend Yield Draws Buyers

July 15, 2026, 11:41 PM EDT. IPH Ltd (ASX: IPH) has fallen 18% over the past year but is up 15% in 2026 so far. Shares have rallied 30% off the March low at $3.19. The high-yield dividend stock, still facing headwinds from regional setbacks, a CEO change, and currency swings, is paying around 9.4% yield with an 80%-90% payout ratio. Tony O’Malley’s move to CEO has lifted sentiment. IPH sits in a defensive spot in intellectual property services, with reliable cash flow through cycles. Its recent pullback is seen by some as a chance to get in for yield.

1 ASX dividend stock down 18% I'd buy toda…

Odyssey Gold (ASX: ODY) drills hit more high-grade gold near Shackle and Bollard at Tuckanarra

July 15, 2026, 11:38 PM EDT. Odyssey Gold (ASX: ODY) reported shallow high-grade gold at its Tuckanarra project, confirming 3m at 16.1 g/t gold from 55m at the Shackle target. Drilling at the historical Bollard pit also hit 15m at 3.9 g/t from 102m, stretching known mineralisation. The company said it will update its Mineral Resource Estimate and mining plans with the new data. Mineralisation at Shackle, close to the Cable deposit, stays open and drill-ready. Bollard’s inferred resource is 0.68Mt at 2.1 g/t for 46,000oz, while Tuckanarra overall sits at 6.3Mt at 2.2 g/t for 451,000oz. Odyssey moves ahead with Stage 1 after a recent scoping study and has plans for more than 70 new exploration sites across the project.

Odyssey Gold Confirms New Shackle Discover…

ASX Dividend Stocks Stand Out as CGT Reforms Loom

July 15, 2026, 11:35 PM EDT. Capital gains tax (CGT) reforms coming in July 2027 will swap the 50% CGT discount for 12-month holdings with an inflation-adjusted method and a 30% minimum tax on real gains. Investors could see higher tax bills on assets with big capital gains, making dividend income-especially from shares with franking credits-look more attractive. Three ASX names seen holding up well in this scenario are Washington H. Soul Pattinson (SOL), which has a long run of hiking its fully franked dividends, and Transurban Group (TCL), riding on inflation-linked toll revenue and durable traffic numbers. Both are seen as solid dividend stocks that may draw more attention from investors watching after-tax yields as the tax shake-up nears.

3 ASX dividend shares that look better aft…

ASX Slips as BHP Cuts Copper View; Tech, Gold Stocks Struggle for Direction

July 15, 2026, 11:32 PM EDT. The S&P/ASX 200 fell 0.3% by midday in Sydney, pulled lower after BHP dropped 2%. BHP forecast copper production to fall 12% for FY27, missing market hopes, and flagged a US$2.3 billion writedown on its Jansen potash project, putting pressure on mining stocks. Despite posting record iron ore output, the news hurt mood across the sector. Telecommunications were the top gainers. Ora Banda reported a record 39,600 ounces in gold production but saw all-in sustaining costs rise 9%, holding back more gains. Macquarie Technology Group jumped after buying a $240 million site for a new campus. Technology One slipped as CFO changes hit sentiment, though the company stuck with its profit guidance. Australian Ethical Investment’s funds touched $14.5 billion, helped by stronger markets and fresh super inflows. Traders watched US-Iran headlines for impact on global trade flows.

Lunch Wrap: ASX fizzles as BHP brings the …

Javelin Minerals Extends Shallow Gold at Eureka, Nears Mining Approvals

July 15, 2026, 11:08 PM EDT. Javelin Minerals has hit more shallow gold at its Eureka project outside Kalgoorlie, with new RC drilling confirming mineralisation inside planned open pit areas and high-grade zones. The 37 holes, totalling 5,184 metres, returned consistent grades up to 2.7 g/t over 4 metres and pushed out shallow mineralised zones along strike at Eureka Northwest. Eureka holds 2.04 million tonnes at 1.69 g/t for 110,687 ounces. Water extraction and native vegetation clearing approvals are locked in, and the Mining Development and Closure Plan is at the final stage. The project moves toward production. Executive Chairman Brett Mitchell called out the size and grade continuity as key for mining and further exploration.

Javelin firms Eureka shallow gold continui…

Azzuro Resources (ASX:AZ9) drills extend Red Hill copper-gold strike, hit more high-grade in Mongolia

July 15, 2026, 11:06 PM EDT. Azzuro Resources (ASX:AZ9) grew the mineralised copper-gold strike at its Red Hill project in Mongolia to almost 550 metres after recent drilling hit more high grades. Hole MU2605 cut a massive sulphide lens grading 11.94% copper, with gold, silver and zinc also in the mix. Other intervals included 18m at 1.02% copper and 0.54g/t gold, extending the system further. Mineralisation stays open in several directions. The company drilled 15 holes for 1,880m in this first round. More assays are in the lab and a met test is coming this quarter. A geophysical survey at Azzuro’s Oval copper-nickel project is set for August.

Azzuro expands Red Hill footprint with hig…

MyEco Group (ASX: MCO) hits record $15.8m FY26 retail sales as branded compostables drive growth

July 15, 2026, 11:04 PM EDT. MyEco Group (ASX: MCO) said retail sales reached a record $15.8 million in FY26, up 0.8% from last year. The company pointed to strong demand for its branded compostable products. In Australia, retail sales jumped 22.7% to $5.4 million and Q4 set a new high at $1.5 million. MyEco credited growth to its PCR bin liners launch and stronger sales through Woolworths and Coles, where its MyEcoBag line kept leading market shares. Contracts with Penrith, Moira and Stonnington councils lifted council waste management revenue. Sales of white label, resin, and in the US fell, with US sales hit hard by tariffs and supply chain problems. MyEco said it’s still pushing toward higher-margin and branded channels in its strategic move to boost profitability.

MyEco Group Posts Record Retail Sales as F…

CSL Shares Up 15% in a Month; Brokers Mixed as Targets Suggest Upside

July 15, 2026, 11:02 PM EDT. CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL) shares climbed 15% in the past month to $122.29, but they’re still off 29% year-to-date and down 51% from last year. Broker sentiment has shifted to more caution-most rate CSL as ‘hold’. The average price target comes in at $140.15, about 15% higher from here. Morgans sticks to a buy rating and $147.59 target, pointing to long-term demand for CSL’s plasma therapies. Macquarie is more cautious, keeping a neutral recommendation and a $114 target, citing competition and questions over plasma and albumin. Investors are focused on FY26 for clearer signs of a turnaround as the plasma market grows.

Here's what brokers tip for CSL shares ove…

Sydney $3B Data Centre Project Gets Site Secured

July 15, 2026, 10:50 PM EDT. Developers have locked in land for a $3 billion data centre in Sydney, moving the project forward. Securing the site is a key milestone for the build as interest ramps up in data storage and infrastructure in Australia. The project is seen as a sign of strong demand from the digital and cloud sectors.

Site of $3bn data centre confirmed

BHP Hits Record Pilbara Output as Workers Set for Major Port Hedland Strike

July 15, 2026, 10:49 PM EDT. BHP reported record iron ore output in the Pilbara, but hundreds of union workers at Port Hedland are set to strike for eight hours, in what could be the largest WA mining walkout in 25 years. After months of pay talks failed, unions rejected BHP’s 16% pay bump over four years as not enough. The Chamber of Minerals and Energy slammed the dispute, and calls for government action picked up. BHP says it’s turned to the Fair Work Commission for mediation after talks broke down. Operations at the export terminal are likely to see disruption during the strike, with BHP posting best-ever production numbers as its labor fight escalates.

BHP workers to strike as mining giant hits…

Macquarie Says Buy Amplitude Energy, Iluka Resources; Highlights Gas and Zircon Picks

July 15, 2026, 10:48 PM EDT. Macquarie analysts put the buy tag on Amplitude Energy Ltd (ASX: AEL) and Iluka Resources Ltd (ASX: ILU). Amplitude is working toward a final investment decision on its East Coast Gas Project, with first gas targeted for fiscal 2028. The company recently bought 50% of the offshore Artisan gas field from Beach Energy for $58.3 million. Analysts point out 80% of Amplitude’s 2026 gas is already contracted, though a federal gas reservation plan could hit downside. Their price target sits at A$2.15, a premium to the A$1.49 current price. Iluka is lifted by tight zircon supply and higher prices, but faces weak titanium dioxide markets. Eneabba Phase 3 construction is underway, aiming to finish late 2027. Macquarie’s target for ILU is A$8, ahead of its A$6.30 quote, with the broker pushing a longer-term call on the stock.

A miner and an energy company to buy accor…

Flynn Gold Extends High-Grade Gold-Tungsten Zone at Firetower Project

July 15, 2026, 10:47 PM EDT. Flynn Gold (ASX:FG1) has pushed high-grade polymetallic mineralisation at Firetower in Tasmania at least 80m deeper than past drilling. The first 2026 hole, 2019FTD014E, cut 9.64m @ 2.49g/t gold, 0.29% WO3, and 0.52% copper from 200.13m, with some higher-grade parts. Results show gold, tungsten, and copper continue beyond 200m depth and the zone still isn’t closed off. Flynn has finished three holes so far in its 1600m drill program aiming to add tonnes and in-fill. Management flagged rising copper grades as a key boost for the project’s polymetallic case. Assays from the other holes are still pending as Flynn works to map out Firetower’s size and potential.

Flynn Gold confirms high-grade gold-tungst…

Cochlear Sees Pressure in TICI Space as Rivals Make Gains

July 15, 2026, 10:46 PM EDT. Cochlear ASX:COH is facing more heat in the totally implantable cochlear implant market. UBS points to Envoy Medical’s Nasdaq TICI device as possible first to market and notes its hearing results could stack up to Cochlear’s own, which puts more pressure on the incumbent. MED-El in Innsbruck is also moving forward, with trials aiming to secure European approval soon. Cochlear, which just cut its outlook because of weaker U.S. demand and global risks, still says TICI has legs for the long haul. UBS sticks with a neutral view, sees the shares at A$106, less than the A$123 they closed at most recently. Over in diagnostics, Bell Potter has Lumos Diagnostics (ASX:LDX) at buy, eyeing 25 cents as its target. It calls out Lumos’s FDA-cleared rapid test for bacterial infections as a key growth driver.

Health Check: Do we hear more bad news abo…

How ASX: BEN Share Price Stacks Up on Yield and PE

July 15, 2026, 10:30 PM EDT. Bendigo & Adelaide Bank Ltd (ASX: BEN) has drawn ASX investors with its steady dividends and franking credits since the Covid lows. The stock trades at $10.71, showing a PE ratio of 12.3x versus the sector’s 19x average. If BEN matched that sector PE, the price would be $16.23, so it still looks undervalued by that measure. Analysts often use the dividend discount model here too, backing up BEN’s dividend track record. Comparing BEN’s valuation against Macquarie Group (ASX: MQG) and Bank of Queensland (ASX: BOQ) gives a sense of where it fits among Australian banks.

Value the BEN share price using its divide…

Ausgold Hits Gold Below Katanning Open Pit Resource

July 15, 2026, 10:16 PM EDT. Ausgold (ASX:AUC) says new deep drill results from its Katanning project in Western Australia suggest resource growth below the current 2.44 million ounce open pit. The company reported 16m at 1.32g/t gold from 252m and 13.8m at 0.48g/t from 481.5m, about 300m under the existing resource. Ausgold said these hits point to a continuous system. Infill drilling covering 25,000m also turned up high-grade gold close to surface, backing the company’s geological model. Executive chairman John Dorward called out the Central Zone as the big focus, making up close to 90% of current estimates. The project is getting state co-funding and targets a 15km mineralised trend, with more assay results expected to decide the next round of deep drilling.

Ausgold drilling uncovers Katanning’s deep…

Janus Electric signs $45m US truck conversion contracts as order book climbs

July 15, 2026, 10:15 PM EDT. Janus Electric landed $45 million in new US contracts to convert 67 diesel trucks to electric, supply 77 battery packs and install four charging stations. Customers include four California-based fleets: Golden State Express, WEHACO, Tradelink Transport, and King Fio Trucking. Janus now has 112 North American conversions in its pipeline and five US customers. Deliveries start later this year and run through 2027. Electric Vehicle Choice will support fleets and is involved with California’s zero-emission truck incentives. Janus said demand keeps growing as more fleets look at its electric technology for cleaner US trucking.

Janus Electric Expands US Business with $4…

Anson Resources (ASX: ASN) Moves to Lock Up More Lithium Claims Near Green River Project

July 15, 2026, 10:14 PM EDT. Anson Resources (ASX: ASN) has filed for 17 more mineral blocks with Utah officials, targeting land next to its Green River lithium project. The area covers 3,958 acres, or just over 16 square kilometres. If approved, the extra ground would lift Green River’s land size by 18.4%. Anson is looking to widen its lithium footprint, aiming to feed rising battery and electric vehicle demand. The company is pushing ahead with its efforts to secure more mineral rights in what it calls a tight market.

Anson seeks additional Green River lithium…

BHP's Iron Ore Unit Hit by Port Hedland Strike, $50 Million at Risk

July 15, 2026, 10:01 PM EDT. About 200 workers at BHP’s iron ore division are on strike at the Port Hedland export terminal in Western Australia, marking the company’s first protected industrial action in more than 25 years. The stoppage runs from 2pm to 10pm AWST and comes after failed talks with unions and the Fair Work Commission. Workers are pushing for equal pay, more transparent promotions, and better workplace rules, saying the current system with individual agreements isn’t clear. BHP, Australia’s biggest company with over $307 billion in market cap, said it is disappointed but expects to keep operations going with its contingency plans. The strike could hit BHP with losses as high as $50 million. State officials in Western Australia warned of possible future walkouts and effects on the wider mining sector.

Hundreds to strike at mining giant’s cruci…

American Uranium (ASX:AMU) pushes forward at Lo Herma with new wells, pump work planned

July 15, 2026, 10:00 PM EDT. American Uranium (ASX:AMU) is moving ahead at its Lo Herma uranium project in Wyoming. The company drilled seven new monitoring wells at Mine Unit 1 ahead of large pump tests planned for August or September. Pump tests check groundwater flows and uranium recovery potential. The work is part of advancing the site. The update is not investment advice and investors should seek their own guidance before acting.

StockTake: American Uranium preparing pump…

Jumbo Interactive (ASX:JIN) drops 25% in a year, dividend cut in focus

July 15, 2026, 9:59 PM EDT. Jumbo Interactive Ltd (ASX: JIN) is down more than 25% in the past year as the stock took a hit from a Morgan Stanley downgrade and a dividend cut. The software group is now trading on a dividend yield of about 6%. The company reduced its payout after acquisitions in the UK and US, saying it wants to cut debt and shore up the balance sheet. Management is guiding for underlying earnings growth of 20%-24% in FY26, with the US business and overseas operations doing most of the heavy lifting. While the dividend reduction has disappointed, it could allow a more stable payout in the future. Income investors are still watching the 6% yield and recent turnaround in fundamentals.

Is this beaten-down ASX software stock hid…

Morgans Keeps Buy on ResMed (ASX: RMD), Cuts Target After MatrixCare Deal

July 15, 2026, 9:58 PM EDT. ResMed Inc (ASX: RMD) is down more than 25% over the last year, putting it back on analysts’ radar. Morgans stuck with its buy rating on the stock but took the target price down to A$40.97 from A$41.72. The trim comes as ResMed moves to sell MatrixCare for US$490 million, a deal eyed to close in Q1 FY27. The sale should let ResMed focus on sleep and breathing, Morgans said. Most proceeds are set for an accelerated share buyback to balance out dilution from the company’s recent deals. Shares last traded at A$28.25. Market cap stands at A$40.06 billion, with a 1.23% unfranked yield. The company reports Q4 earnings on August 6.

How much could ResMed shares rise accordin…

BHP (ASX: BHP) Gains as Q4 Production Rises, Iron Ore Price Outlook Still Cautious

July 15, 2026, 9:48 PM EDT. BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) shares rose after the miner posted a 3% sequential rise in Q4 copper output to 491.9kt, though that’s 5% below last year. Iron ore came in at 68.1mt for the quarter, up 8% sequentially but 3% lower year-on-year. For the FY26 year, copper held close to 2mt and iron ore ticked up to 264.7mt. CEO Brandon Craig said cost control held up well against inflation and higher commodity prices, with copper prices up 35% in the last 12 months. Looking to FY27, BHP is guiding for lower copper production at 1,650-1,800kt, iron ore about flat at 260-272mt. The company is putting money into new projects, looking to expand in potash and U.S. copper. But some concerns linger on iron ore prices as global supply weighs on investor sentiment.

BHP (ASX:BHP) share price in focus on stro…

Liberty Bell Bay shuts down for good after failed sale and loss of funding

July 15, 2026, 9:47 PM EDT. Liberty Bell Bay, Australia’s last manganese smelter, has closed its doors in northern Tasmania. The shutdown comes after a deal to sell the plant fell through and a key backer walked away, administrators EY Parthenon said. With no funding left and the outlook grim, smelter operations stopped immediately. About 200 staff are affected. Both Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff and Industry Minister Tim Ayres called it a ‘sad day’ for the region and promised to help workers. Owned by GFG Alliance before entering administration in March, the smelter had struggled for months with tight ore supplies and rough market swings.

Breaking: Australia's only manganese smelt…

AMP Ltd ASX:AMP jumps after profit guidance and asset sale

July 15, 2026, 9:46 PM EDT. AMP Ltd shares traded higher after the company guided for first-half underlying net profit of $170-$180 million, up from $131 million a year ago. AMP said the increase is due to stronger results out of its China operations, better investment returns, and a $13 million one-off gain from a partial legacy fund asset sale with DigitalBridge. The company said more payments may come but these aren’t certain. AMP touched $1.89 before finishing up 2% at $1.76. It recently wrapped up a $150 million buyback. Half-year results are set for August 6. Dividend yield sits at 2.31% franked at 20%. The company’s market cap is $4.21 billion on the ASX.

Why are AMP shares trading higher today?

Fleetwood (ASX: FWD) to buy Red Dog Village for $20m, eyes higher earnings

July 15, 2026, 9:45 PM EDT. Fleetwood (ASX: FWD) said it will pay $20 million to acquire Red Dog Village in Karratha, picking up 2,169 beds for its Community Solutions arm. The deal is expected to finish up in December 2026, with management moving over in January 2027. Fleetwood sees annualized EBIT growing by $10 million to $20 million from the move. The company is adding beds in a region that faces a shortfall of about 1,500 transient worker accommodation spots in the next three to five years. Fleetwood will fund the deal with debt and plans to use its modular build experience to address different accommodation needs for resource projects. Fleetwood also said it is selling its RV Solutions division for $9.5 million as it narrows focus to core business.

Fleetwood to Acquire Red Dog Village Follo…

AMP (ASX: AMP) tips 1H26 profit rise on stronger China ties, higher investment income

July 15, 2026, 9:44 PM EDT. AMP Ltd (ASX: AMP) now sees underlying NPAT for the first half of 2026 coming in at $170-180 million, citing better returns from its China partnerships and higher group investment income. China contributed about $56 million, up 24% from the previous half. Investment income got a $5 million lift from higher rates and $13 million in carried interest from asset sales also helped. A $12 million revaluation hit in ‘Other Partnerships’ investments cut into the overall gains. AMP will release full first-half results on August 6, 2026, when it will update its guidance. AMP shares are up 21% the past year, while the S&P/ASX 200 Index is up 2%.

AMP expects higher 1H26 earnings on China …

Aura Energy (ASX:AEE) Could See Boost From Sweden’s New Uranium Law

July 15, 2026, 9:43 PM EDT. Aura Energy (ASX:AEE) could benefit after Sweden passed new legislation removing uranium mining from nuclear facility regulations. The rule change is meant to help Aura move forward on its Häggån uranium project, which Sweden has marked as nationally important. The updates may open the door for higher uranium output and have effects on Aura’s operations. All views stated here are opinions, not financial advice. Investors should seek independent advice before acting.

StockTake: Swedish uranium enaction opens …

Italian Driver Finds Painted Lines and Fine on Car

July 15, 2026, 9:30 PM EDT. An Italian motorist discovered painted lines around his car’s tyres and a parking ticket on his windshield. The method, used by parking inspectors, is part of a move to toughen up on offenders. Inspectors use the markings to catch people trying to dodge fines by moving their vehicles. The tactic has started debate over parking controls in Italy. Parking fines and new enforcement tactics are still key to managing city traffic.

‘Bastards’: Parking inspector fine act sho…

ASX Small Caps Jump on Resource Plays; JNS Soars 77%

July 15, 2026, 9:29 PM EDT. Australian Securities Exchange ASX small caps traded higher Thursday on a run of exploration updates. Januselectricholding (JNS) jumped 77% to 27.5 cents, while Red Sky Energy (ROG) rose 50%. Lodestar Minerals lifted its Virgin Mountain rare earths footprint 40%, posting assay results as high as 14.68% total rare earth oxides. Azzuro Resources reported high-grade copper-gold hits in Mongolia, up to 11.94% copper over 1.6 meters. American Uranium pressed ahead with pump testing in Wyoming and Anson Resources aimed to grow lithium acreage in Utah. Winchester Energy (WEL) fell 25%, with weak sentiment around mixed commodity outlooks. Resource exploration news kept small caps in focus as sector volatility continued on the ASX.

Morning Feed: What’s cooking on the ASX?

Shaw and Partners Says Brightstar (ASX: BTR), Global Lithium (ASX: GL1) Could Triple or More

July 15, 2026, 9:28 PM EDT. Shaw and Partners flagged Brightstar Resources Ltd (ASX: BTR) and Global Lithium Resources Ltd (ASX: GL1) as juniors with big upside. Brightstar’s Sandstone gold resource jumped to 1.1 million ounces in measured and indicated, a key step for development. Shaw and Partners put a AUD 1.23 target on BTR, up from 32 cents. Global Lithium got a lift from buying a nickel-copper plant from IGO’s Nova unit, speeding up lithium project work. The firm values GL1 at AUD 1.75, almost four times Tuesday’s 46.5 cents. Both stocks seen gaining on project moves toward output.

2 ASX mining project developers which coul…

Nimy Resources (ASX:NIM) starts ground EM survey at Mons project, lines up fresh drill targets

July 15, 2026, 9:27 PM EDT. Nimy Resources (ASX:NIM) has kicked off a ground electromagnetic (EM) survey at four main prospects within its Mons project in Western Australia. The survey is set to zero in on new drill targets for copper, nickel, PGE, zinc, and gold after the company found Volcanogenic Hosted Massive Sulphide (VHMS) and magmatic sulphide mineralisation from earlier drilling. The team will combine airborne EM, soil sampling, and geophysical data to help focus sulphide drill targets at Masson, Masson Northeast, Sneaky Squirrel, and Block 3. The program was outlined by Newexco Exploration, which reviewed Nimy’s recent geophysical results. Managing director Luke Hampson said the survey helps cut drill risk and pushes work forward on the Mons Greenstone Belt, an area with rocks known to host VHMS and magmatic sulphides.

Nimy Resources to shine a light on Mons dr…

Cobalt Blue (ASX: COB) runs core sampling at Halls Creek to improve metals recovery

July 15, 2026, 9:14 PM EDT. Cobalt Blue Holdings (ASX: COB) has finished targeted core sampling at its Halls Creek base metals project in Western Australia. The company wants to improve and make development simpler. The sampling follows on from a June 2025 scoping study and aims to lift copper, zinc and silver recovery using heap leach processing. Metallurgical tests coming up will look at silver extraction, which could improve the project’s economics. CEO Dr. Andrew Tong said the sampling helps fine-tune the staged approach and could cut operational complexity. They are eyeing a central processing plant at Onedin-Sandiego that can handle later satellite feed and drive regional growth. Cobalt Blue plans to boost its stake to 75% by spending another A$1.5 million by mid-2028 to push technical and commercial work forward.

Cobalt Blue Looks to Simplify Halls Creek …

Kaoko Metals (ASX:KAO) reports copper, tungsten, gold finds at Karibib in Namibia

July 15, 2026, 9:13 PM EDT. Kaoko Metals (ASX:KAO) said it has found strong copper, tungsten, and gold results at its Karibib site in Namibia. The company says new assays point to a multi-commodity system, driving up interest in its exploration push. The results were discussed with Kaoko Metals but aren’t investment advice. Investors should get their own advice before acting.

StockTake: Kaoko Metals confirms polymetal…

Netwealth (ASX: NWL) Hits New High With $135.7 Billion in FUA for June 2026 Quarter

July 15, 2026, 9:12 PM EDT. Netwealth Group Ltd (ASX: NWL) said funds under administration hit a record $135.7 billion in the June 2026 quarter, up 20.3% from a year ago. Custodial FUA inflows jumped 11% to $8.4 billion for the quarter, with $3.2 billion from new and existing intermediary relationships. Managed accounts rose to $30.5 billion, up 30%. Customer accounts climbed 12.4% to 182,276. Netwealth said market conditions added $6.7 billion to FUA. The group rolled out tech upgrades, including an AI virtual assistant, and deepened its partnership with Morgan Stanley. It sees FY27 net flows at $18-$20 billion, eyeing a 47% EBITDA margin. Shares are down 34% over the past year, lagging the S&P/ASX 200.

Netwealth delivers record FUA in June 2026…

ASX: Where $15,000 Targets Steady Retirement Income

July 15, 2026, 9:11 PM EDT. ASX stocks remain a go-to for steady passive income in retirement. Two picks on the radar are Rural Funds Group (ASX: RFF) and Future Generation Global (ASX: FGG). Rural Funds is a REIT holding a mix of farms, with a projected 5.3% yield for FY26 and stable, inflation-adjusted payouts-no cuts in more than ten years. Future Generation Global, a LIC with global equity exposure, aims for a forward dividend yield close to 7%, boosted by franking and a run of annual increases since FY19. Both names are delivering solid dividends and diversification for investors who want resilient income streams from a $15,000 retirement allocation.

How to invest $15,000 for passive income i…

Buxton Resources (ASX:BUX) hits sulphides, magnetic breccia in first Madman drill hole

July 15, 2026, 8:25 PM EDT. Buxton Resources (ASX:BUX) says its first hole at the Madman project in WA cut hydrothermal breccia with more sulphides deeper in the hole. The company says seeing pyrrhotite explains the magnetic anomaly and supports the case for a Paterson-style gold-copper target, similar to Havieron and Telfer. Drilling went down to 533.6 meters, and Buxton plans to keep drilling and run down-hole EM work. Managing Director Marty Moloney called the results promising for a new big find in the region. The company says more assays and drilling will be needed to pin down gold grades and the real size of the system.

Buxton’s first Madman hole draws compariso…

Flynn Gold (ASX:FG1) hits high-grade gold, tungsten at Firetower in Tasmania

July 15, 2026, 8:24 PM EDT. Flynn Gold (ASX:FG1) said its first 2026 drill hole at the Firetower project in northern Tasmania returned high grades of gold, tungsten and copper. Managing director Neil Marston said the results point to a bigger mineral system under earlier drill targets. The company said this could mean more gold and tungsten at Firetower. Flynn Gold said the results are early and advised investors to seek independent advice.

Long Shortz with Flynn Gold: Firetower fir…

RBC backs Woodside, Santos as Brent climbs on Middle East unrest

July 15, 2026, 7:52 PM EDT. RBC Capital Markets is picking Woodside Energy and Santos Ltd as its preferred Australian oil names with Brent crude up 23% to average US$96.60 per barrel in Q2 2026 as Middle East tensions flare again. RBC, though, has cut its Brent view for 2026-27 to about US$80, citing supply issues in the Gulf and shifting global demand. Woodside gets a nod from RBC for growth, with projects like Scarborough and Trion expected to lift production. For Santos, cash flow ramps up from late 2026 on projects including Pikka and Barossa. RBC has a price target of A$34.50 for Woodside and A$8 for Santos, keeping a constructive stance in a choppy oil market.

Which ASX oil companies does RBC Capital M…

Austin Metals (ASX:AYT) wraps up 4216m RC drilling at WA gold project

July 15, 2026, 7:37 PM EDT. Austin Metals (ASX:AYT) has completed a 21-hole RC drilling campaign for 4216m at its Austin Gold project in WA’s Murchison region. Drilling focused on five gold zones at Brunswick Hill and tested extensions at Mt Sandy. Assays are due in four to six weeks. Austin said it will combine the new results with its existing data to assess the potential and plan next steps. The company said this program moves its gold project assessment forward and will guide follow-up drilling and work at other targets, including Teds and Shadow.

Austin completes RC drilling at namesake g…

ASX Set to Open Higher After BlackRock Earnings Beat; SpaceX Slips Below IPO Price

July 15, 2026, 7:25 PM EDT. ASX 200 futures were up 0.2%, pointing to a higher start for Australian shares after BlackRock reported better-than-expected quarterly profits and revenue. BlackRock shares jumped 6.5% as its iShares funds hit $6 trillion in assets, up twofold in three years. US stocks tracked near record highs on slower inflation data, dimming prospects for further rate hikes. Brent pushed above $85 a barrel. SpaceX saw shares dip 0.6% to $135.27, dropping under the IPO price as investor interest cooled. The Australian dollar stayed near flat, Bitcoin posted small gains, and traders are watching for Australia’s inflation expectations plus results from TSMC and Netflix.

ASX to rise as US bank bonanzas continue; …

A2 Milk ASX:A2M falls 24.5% since 2025, investors size up consumer staples

July 15, 2026, 7:24 PM EDT. A2 Milk Company ASX:A2M shares are down 24.5% since the start of 2025. The sliding price has some investors rethinking the stock. A2M, which started in New Zealand, is known for its A2 protein dairy products that pitch easier digestion. The company offers a 0.28% dividend yield, which is on the low side, but staples like A2M are often seen as safe in downturns. These stocks are less volatile and demand tends to hold up. The S&P/ASX200 Consumer Staples Index lost 0.59% per year over the past five years, while the broader ASX 200 put on 3.94%, but the staples sector is more defensive. A2M’s current price-to-sales ratio is 4.07x, higher than its five-year average. That points to shifting valuations as sales and prices move around. Some investors stick with staples for portfolio stability, especially when markets get choppy.

A2M share price: why investors like consum…

EMvision Medical Devices (ASX: EMV) up 15% after quarterly, Bell Potter stays bullish

July 15, 2026, 7:23 PM EDT. Shares of EMvision Medical Devices Ltd (ASX: EMV) surged 15% after the medical device maker put out its quarterly. EMvision is working on portable brain scanners including the emu scanner and the First Responder helmet for ambulances. The company said it has $17.1 million cash and reported progress on a pivotal trial for FDA clearance. Results from an aeromedical study with the Royal Flying Doctor Service backed up usability claims. Bell Potter kept its speculative buy and a $3.15 target, which would be an 80% jump for the shares. Management said it is preparing for a U.S. FDA pre-submission which could be a key point for the story. Broader inclusion criteria in its ongoing trials may slow timelines into 2027, but that could mean stronger clinical results. The rally follows investor optimism around EMvision’s AI-enabled stroke detection tech.

This healthcare stock just jumped 15% and …

Vanguard Pays Out Dividends to ASX ETF Holders Today

July 15, 2026, 7:22 PM EDT. Vanguard paid out final dividends on its ASX-listed ETFs today. VAS investors are getting 48.83 cents a unit, and VSO pays out 219.69 cents. VGS, one of Vanguard’s main international ETFs, delivers 81.54 cents a unit. The Vanguard Global Minimum Volatility Active ETF (VMIN) stands out with a 377.42 cent payout for a 5.9% yield, while the Global Value Equity Active ETF (VVLU) leads with 619.93 cents a unit, yielding 7.5%. These are quarterly payments, with usual ex-dividend pricing. Anyone holding these Vanguard ETFs on the ASX gets their dividends today.

Own Vanguard ASX ETFs? It's dividend payda…

Kaoko Metals Hits High-Grade Copper, Gold, Tungsten in Rock Chips at Karibib

July 15, 2026, 7:21 PM EDT. Kaoko Metals said it returned high-grade rock chip samples from its Karibib project in Namibia, with assays up to 4.9% copper, 0.85 g/t gold, and 0.68% WO3. Samples from 54 sites at Gamikaubmund, Gamikaubmund North, and Pot Mine turned up shallow copper mineralisation and backed up old results. Ten samples ran over 1% copper, three of those topped 2%. Tungsten showed up in a wide area. The early-stage copper-gold-tungsten project covers 250 km2 in Namibia’s Erongo region, close to big deposits like QKR’s Navachab gold mine. “The results confirm an exciting multi-commodity system,” said MD Gerard O’Donovan. Geochemical work is ongoing ahead of drilling by Chalkos Resources, with geological input from co-founder Callum Standing.

Kaoko Metals’ rock chip sampling highlight…

ASX to open higher as Wall Street rallies on BlackRock results, oil jumps

July 15, 2026, 7:07 PM EDT. The Australian sharemarket is on track to edge up after futures rose 0.1% and a 0.4% gain yesterday. Wall Street climbed, with the S&P 500 adding 0.4% and closing near a record. BlackRock led gains and surged 6.6% after posting stronger than expected revenue and profit. Bank of New York Mellon and Cintas moved up too. SpaceX slid below its IPO price for the first time since listing, dropping for a fourth straight session as investor interest cooled. Oil prices hit a one-month high as Iran tensions roiled markets. The Dow Jones tacked on 150 points and Nasdaq was up 0.6%. Investors also got inflation numbers that showed wholesale prices slowing.

ASX set to edge up, Wall Street rises as o…

Belararox (ASX:BRX) Finds More Copper Drill Targets at Kalahari, Drilling to Start in Weeks

July 15, 2026, 7:06 PM EDT. Belararox (ASX:BRX) has picked up new copper drill targets at its Kalahari project in Botswana after running airborne electromagnetic (AEM) surveys. Drilling is due to kick off in the next few weeks. Survey results sharpened the project’s geological models and backed up the continuity of copper mineralisation tied to the Khoemacau district. Belararox has given the diamond drilling contract to Rots Drill Exploration and expects the rig to move in within two weeks. The company is also widening its ionic soil sampling work, going after concealed mineralisation under volcanic rocks. Shareholders have cleared a change of name to Vantage Metals, set for July 2026. With this round, Belararox is adding to its pipeline of high-quality targets in the Kalahari Copper Belt for near-term drilling.

Belararox EM survey builds Kalahari target…

Echo IQ (ASX: EIQ) Rallies 500% This Year; Morgans Ups Target After U.S. Moves

July 15, 2026, 6:51 PM EDT. Shares of Echo IQ Ltd (ASX: EIQ) have jumped more than 500% so far in 2024, far outpacing the broader ASX. The AI heart diagnostics firm raised $110 million, landed a strategic deal with Pro Medicus, and pushed into the U.S. market. Morgans raised its target on Echo IQ to $1.85 from $1.30, saying the commercial path is clearer and FDA approval could be near for its cardiac tool. Shares ended the day at $1.57, with the broker’s target implying room for another 18%. Bell Potter is positive but flagged slow revenue growth, cash burn, and share swings tied to new customer news as risks.

This ASX growth stock is up 500% this year…

Janus Electric (ASX: JNS) pushes swappable batteries for big truck electric shift

July 15, 2026, 6:50 PM EDT. Janus Electric (ASX: JNS) is betting on converting diesel trucks to electric with swappable batteries, charging depots, and software. The company targets big freight fleets, offering retrofits to cut downtime and up-front costs. Janus is looking for steady revenue from battery leasing and energy services tied into fleet operations. It already runs an Australian charging network across several states. Pulling it off means ramping conversions and driving strong use of its network. The model tries to take some pain out of heavy freight electrification by easing adoption and lowering infrastructure hurdles. If it works, Janus could shake up fleet electrification economics with a service-first setup.

Why Janus Electric’s Swappable Battery Mod…

ASX 200 Likely to Open Higher After Second Wall Street Rally

July 15, 2026, 6:49 PM EDT. The S&P/ASX 200 looks set for a stronger open after Wall Street ended higher for a second day. U.S. gains are helping push Australian stocks up. Investors eye more economic numbers and earnings releases. Focus stays on global moves affecting the market.

ASX 200 Live Today

Telstra Outage Hits Emergency Calls, Analysts Don’t See Mass Customer Loss

July 15, 2026, 6:36 PM EDT. Telstra’s network outage knocked out emergency Triple Zero calls, train lines, and eftpos transactions nationwide, piling pressure on the telco’s reputation. Still, analysts including MST’s Fraser McLeish and Morningstar’s Brian Han don’t expect Telstra to lose a wave of customers, citing its track record and weaker alternatives from Optus and Vodafone. The outage was linked to an old server. Government officials slammed the company, regulators opened a probe, and Telstra CEO Vicki Brady is set to appear at a Senate hearing. Despite the trouble, customers are mostly sticking with Telstra thanks to its broad coverage and established brand.

Nowhere to run to: why angry Telstra users…

PAWS Darwin Owes Former Workers $150k in Unpaid Superannuation

July 15, 2026, 6:35 PM EDT. Ex-staff at PAWS Darwin say the charity owes over $150,000 in superannuation that was never paid. Staff said their payslips showed supposed super payments, but the money didn’t reach their funds. One employee, Sarah, said her fund nearly lost insurance since it got nothing for a year, even though her pay showed deductions. Cody Farrow, another ex-worker, said she didn’t get half her super after nine months at PAWS. The group has had cash flow problems and hasn’t lodged recent accounts. Former workers say this has shattered trust and raised fears about their finances.

Former employees of charity speak out abou…

Kazakhstan Temir Zholy Sets Up Triple-Exchange IPO with LSE, AIX, HKEX Listings

July 15, 2026, 6:34 PM EDT. Kazakhstan Temir Zholy (KTZ) is prepping for a triple-listing IPO, planning to sell shares and GDRs on the London Stock Exchange, Astana International Exchange, and Hong Kong Stock Exchange. KTZ changed its charter for HKEX eligibility, and its governance rules are still under review by regulators. The IPO would see 25% of KTZ’s shares offered, while local rules require at least 7.5% on AIX as Kazakhstan hikes its domestic listing quota from 20% to 30% by 2026. Most of KTZ’s revenue comes from freight moving between China and Europe, which helps cover losses in passenger and domestic freight units. The company also wants to increase tariffs for essential goods shipments to help with finances.

Kazakh Railways to launch triple-exchange …

Super Gap Widens for Australians Who Retire at 60 Instead of 67

July 15, 2026, 6:18 PM EDT. Many Australians misjudge the cost of retiring at 60 before they’re eligible for the Age Pension at 67. Stopping work early means seven years with no pension and no more employer super payments. The Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia (ASFA) puts the benchmark for a comfortable retirement at around $630,000, but that’s if someone retires at 67. Tapping super from age 60, at a withdrawal rate of about 8% a year, can drain the balance fast and take away years of extra compound interest. By staying on the job until 67, retirees get more employer contributions and more time for super to grow, so they could finish with as much as $950,000. That difference is easy to miss. A Transition to Retirement Pension (TTR) can help by letting workers draw some super while still earning a wage, but won’t close the gap completely.

Retirement at 60 or 67: The hidden cost mo…

Optometry Chains Push Sales Targets, Staff Warn Patient Care Is Suffering

July 15, 2026, 6:06 PM EDT. Optometrists working at big Australian chains including Specsavers, OPSM, and Bailey Nelson say they’re under pressure to hit sales targets that put profits ahead of patient care, according to internal records. Missing key performance indicators (KPIs)-things like same-day glasses sales and lifting average spend-can mean pay cuts or fewer bookings for staff. Some say exams are rushed or necessary clinical checks skipped during busy “black-out periods,” raising worries about patient safety and missed diagnoses. About 2,600 optometrists are now moving to unionize over the issue. Optometry Australia admits the trends are worrying but says hard data is lacking. The situation is fueling a dispute over ethics and business priorities across the industry.

Revealed: The optometrists punished for pu…

Bell Potter Stays Bullish on Evolution Mining (ASX: EVN) After Q4 Drop, Sees 33% Upside

July 15, 2026, 6:05 PM EDT. Shares of Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN) slipped almost 4% to $11.34 after the company put out a softer Q4 production update. Bell Potter says it’s still a buy, arguing the June quarter numbers held up and Ernest Henry is running at full tilt again. The broker kept its buy call but trimmed the 12-month target to $15.10, which points to a 33% upside from current levels. Guidance for FY27 landed with stable output but flagged higher costs, as inflation and heavier CAPEX for growth and exploration kick in. Bell Potter cut its EPS and dividend estimates but pointed to Evolution’s strong assets and management, as well as a focus on growing cash returns.

Could Evolution Mining shares rise 33%?

3 ASX 300 stocks to watch for the next decade

July 15, 2026, 6:04 PM EDT. Looking out over 10 years, long-term investors may want to focus on growth in the ASX 300. Catapult Sports Ltd (ASX: CAT) makes sports technology for pro teams, betting on data analytics as it tries to build scale globally, though some volatility is likely. SiteMinder Ltd (ASX: SDR) offers hotel booking software and is exposed to digital trends in travel. For something more defensive, Bega Cheese Ltd (ASX: BGA) is expanding in dairy and branded products, and is aiming to lift EBITDA from $222-$227 million in FY26 to above $310 million in FY31. All three companies are positioned for long-term shifts in their sectors.

3 ASX 300 shares I would buy and hold for …

Morgans Keeps Ratings on ASX Stocks, Updates Targets for PME, RMD, WOR

July 15, 2026, 6:03 PM EDT. Morgans has left its ACCUMULATE rating on Pro Medicus (PME) in place with a $230 target, after fixing earlier errors in its financials but leaving its outlook unchanged. ResMed (RMD) holds its BUY rating and $40.97 target following the US$490 million sale of its MatrixCare software business, which the broker says will help streamline the business and back a faster share buyback. Morgans continues to back ResMed for growth through FY2028 with only minor tweaks. For Worley (WOR), Morgans has kept a HOLD call and trimmed its price target to $10.80. Trading is tough, costs are elevated in the Middle East, and earnings forecasts have been marked down. EBITA forecasts for Worley are cut 8-9%, with Morgans warning the order book could roll over by FY26-highlighting investor caution on the stock.

Buy, hold, sell: Pro Medicus, Worley, and …

Covid PPE Scamsters Spent Millions on Cars and Watches, UK Agency Says

July 15, 2026, 5:52 PM EDT. Covid PPE fraudsters Jogesh Bhandari and Craig Morris have been found guilty of conspiracy to commit fraud tied to fake glove deals in the pandemic. Prosecutors said the pair claimed they could supply millions of nitrile gloves and used forged papers and shady escrow deals to get payments. The National Crime Agency said they spent the money on a £126,000 Porsche, Rolexes, jewellery, and on redoing homes. In total, the scam pulled in over $3.18 million for gloves that never went to US hospitals. Sentencing is set for August 21.

Covid PPE fraudsters spent money on cars a…

Pro Medicus ASX:PME Drops 13.5% Since Early 2025; Rio Tinto ASX:RIO Up From Lows, Yield Down

July 15, 2026, 5:51 PM EDT. Pro Medicus Ltd ASX:PME shares are down 13.5% since the start of 2025, even though the company grew revenue over the past three years. PME makes radiology software like its main Visage platform, letting users view big medical images remotely on mobile. Shares trade at a price-to-sales ratio of 124.60x, well above the five-year average of 82.69x. Rio Tinto Ltd ASX:RIO stock sits 51.1% above its 52-week low and has a 3.93% dividend yield, below its five-year average yield of 6.80%. Rio Tinto’s fortunes are tied to iron ore prices. These valuation measures offer a starting look, but investors should dig deeper.

I’m keeping an eye on PME shares in 2026

Evolution Capital Starts Power Minerals at Buy, Sees 152% Gain on Morro do Ferro Progress

July 15, 2026, 5:50 PM EDT. Evolution Capital has kicked off coverage of Power Minerals, setting a 29c price target that signals 152% upside from 11.5c. They base their view mainly on the Brazil-based Morro do Ferro rare earths project, now moving toward a maiden Mineral Resource Estimate. Past drilling at the site returned high-grade rare earth oxides like neodymium-praseodymium and dysprosium-terbium, key for magnets used in tech. A 4,800m diamond drilling program is underway to build resources and drive the project forward. Evolution points to similarities with St George Mining’s Araxá project, which saw its market cap jump after resource growth. Stable mining rights and a long drill record at Morro do Ferro could help Power Minerals move higher, with extra upside from more exploration and other assets.

Evolution tips re-rating for Power Mineral…

Nexus Minerals wraps up drilling at Payns prospect, flags scale potential

July 15, 2026, 5:49 PM EDT. Nexus Minerals (ASX:NXM) managing director Andy Tudor said the company has finished drilling at the Payns prospect and pointed to its potential as a large mineral target. Nexus is working on a broader project with several prospects, following its existing 304,000 ounces of gold east of Kalgoorlie. The company says this shows its push to grow resources in the area. Investors are urged to seek their own advice-statements here are the company’s view, not investment advice.

Long Shortz with Nexus Minerals: Payns per…

ASX Tipped to Open Higher; SpaceX Tumbles Below IPO Mark

July 15, 2026, 5:48 PM EDT. The ASX is set to start higher, with ASX 200 futures up 0.1% at 8,818 after a mixed Wall Street session. SpaceX shares, led by Elon Musk, dropped under the $US135 IPO price as investors took a step back. Brent crude added 0.8% to $US85.43, with supply issues still in focus. The Australian dollar saw little change, and major European markets showed only small moves. SpaceX’s slide is catching attention as broader trade remains choppy. Market watchers will track the open for fresh direction.

Live: ASX to rise as SpaceX shares plunge

Centuria Industrial REIT (ASX: CIP) Yield Lines Up With Age Pension Income

July 15, 2026, 5:34 PM EDT. Centuria Industrial REIT (ASX: CIP) is offering a 5.6% forward distribution yield, about in line with the maximum Age Pension payout of $31,200 a year. The REIT, which owns industrial sites leased to firms like Telstra and Woolworths, posted a 5.1% lift in net operating income for the first half of FY26. Management says the portfolio is under-rented by 20%, opening room for more rent upside down the track. Shares still trade close to 25% under net tangible assets. Passive income investors get asset backing, but would need about 185,715 shares to match an Age Pension income.

185,715 shares of this high-yield ASX divi…

ASX Eyes Small Rise as U.S. Producer Prices Cool, Tech Moves Grab Attention

July 15, 2026, 5:33 PM EDT. ASX 200 futures ticked up 0.2% before the July 16 open, taking a cue from Wall Street after U.S. producer prices dropped 0.3% in June, softer than expected and adding to bets the Fed stays on hold. The Dow added 0.3%, S&P 500 rose 0.4%, Nasdaq climbed 0.6%. BlackRock jumped 6% on a profit and revenue beat. Morgan Stanley saw a record for equities. PayPal rallied on takeover talk, and Apple moved higher on fresh AI approval in China. SpaceX shares dropped below their IPO price as sellers weighed in and insiders neared a lockup expiry. Australia’s prime minister called for tighter rules on AI in creative sectors, targeting local content protections.

Rise and Shine: Everything you need to kno…

Sigma Healthcare (ASX: SIG) seen as buy on store strength, overseas growth, margins

July 15, 2026, 5:32 PM EDT. Sigma Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SIG), which runs Chemist Warehouse, is getting attention as a buy on the back of core store momentum, more sales offshore, and margin gains. Chemist Warehouse in Australia posted 16.7% higher sales from a year ago and like-for-like sales rose 14.4%. Stores abroad, including New Zealand, Ireland, Dubai and China, boosted sales by 24.7%. Sigma is moving into the UK with Greenlight Healthcare, planning to rebrand five London sites at first. Rising scale is expected to drive up margins and boost value for shareholders as the Australian pharmacy sector faces more competition and an ageing customer base.

3 reasons why the ASX share owner of Chemi…

HUB24 (ASX:HUB) drops 13.6% YTD, Zip Co ASX:ZIP lags 52-week high by 35% as growth, ROE numbers land

July 15, 2026, 5:29 PM EDT. HUB24 shares are down 13.6% for the year so far. Zip is trading 35.1% under its 52-week top. HUB24, which runs a wealth platform, posted $328 million in FY24 revenue, up 44.4% per year since 2021. Net profit hit $47 million, and ROE came in at 9.2%. Zip, in buy-now-pay-later, booked $868 million revenue for FY24, rising 75.7% each year over three years. Net loss flipped to a $6 million profit, with ROE at 1.8%. Investors eye these growth and valuation numbers as they look at both HUB and ZIP.

HUB and ZIP shares: 2 ASX shares to watch

BOQ (ASX: BOQ) trades at 15.4x PE, under sector average

July 15, 2026, 5:17 PM EDT. Bank of Queensland Limited (ASX: BOQ) is trading near $6.31 today, putting its price-earnings (PE) ratio at 15.4x-below the sector average of 18x. The PE shows what investors are willing to pay versus yearly EPS. With BOQ posting FY24 EPS of $0.41, applying the sector average PE would value the shares around $7.58. That points to possible upside. The PE ratio is a basic but common tool and gets used alongside others when measuring if a stock looks cheap or pricey against banks like Bendigo & Adelaide Bank or Westpac. ASX banks make up about a third of the All Ordinaries Index, big for investors chasing income. Analysts say it’s best to use PE with other numbers for a clearer read on value.

The easiest way to value the BOQ share pri…

How Much Super Is Needed for $6,500 a Month in Passive Income?

July 15, 2026, 5:02 PM EDT. Generating $6,500 a month in passive income-about $78,000 a year-from super depends on how much yield your investments pay. With a 3% yield, you’re looking at roughly $2.6 million needed. The amount falls to $1.95 million if yield rises to 4%, $1.56 million at 5%, or about $1.1 million at 7%. But higher yields usually mean more risk. Experts typically suggest holding a diversified mix of reliable ASX names paying decent yields for steady income. Building up the balance through ongoing investment and compounding helps hit those numbers. The idea is to strike a balance between income, risk and having enough for retirement.

How much do I need in my superannuation to…

Zip (ASX: ZIP) Jumps 8.5% as US BNPL Ambitions Drive Optimism

July 15, 2026, 5:01 PM EDT. Zip Co Ltd (ASX: ZIP) shares climbed 8.5% to $3.20, beating the S&P/ASX 200’s 0.4% gain. The move takes Zip up 19% for the month. Traders pointed to hopes around Zip’s US expansion as a driver. The US BNPL sector is still seen as under-penetrated, and Zip has been adding partners, including Stripe. UBS is forecasting stronger US transaction volumes through FY2026 as consumer spending holds up. The company also upgraded its FY26 cash EBITDA guidance to at least $260 million, aiming for higher profits. But Zip faces stiff competition from Klarna, PayPal, Afterpay and big banks. Higher rates and market swings could continue to make the shares volatile, so some investors remain cautious.

Could US expansion send Zip shares soaring…

Alcidion (ASX:ALC) wins £20.9m contract with UK NHS Trust for EPR rollout

July 15, 2026, 4:45 PM EDT. Alcidion (ASX:ALC) landed a £20.9 million ($35 million) contract with University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust to deliver its Miya Precision system. The deal runs for seven years with a possible three-year extension worth another £8.3 million. This is Alcidion’s third EPR contract in the UK. The tech will give clinicians real-time patient record access and aims to help clinical decisions and patient flow. The contract comes as the NHS pursues digital upgrades but still faces political and internal hurdles. Alcidion already provides health IT tools to more than 100 clients in the UK, Australia and New Zealand, handling two billion patient observations.

Dr Boreham’s Crucible: Alcidion in breakth…

Regional NSW Towns Lead on Rent Gains, Beating Sydney

July 15, 2026, 4:34 PM EDT. Regional NSW rent prices jumped as much as 26.3% in the 12 months to June 2026, topping Sydney’s 7.6% increase, Domain’s Rent Report said. The median asking rent hit a record $650 a week, up 8.3%. Temora had the sharpest gain. Liverpool Plains and Leeton also logged strong rises. Analysts point to renters priced out of cities and more people choosing to ‘try before you buy’ in the regions. Landlords, squeezed by rising rates, have lifted rents as vacancies stay low. Domain said rule changes for negative gearing and capital gains tax could squeeze supply further. Demand is keeping pressure on tight rental markets outside the major cities.

NSW regional towns that boomed most in the…

EV Sales Jump, Pushing Lithium Demand Higher as Supply Concerns Remain

July 15, 2026, 4:33 PM EDT. Electric vehicle (EV) sales hit 2 million worldwide in June 2026, mainly on the back of Europe’s 27% jump, driven by subsidies and tougher emissions standards. In Australia, BEVs made up 23.4% of new car sales for June after a rapid pickup. Lithium demand is rising fast from this EV push, with batteries for cars, energy storage, renewables and data centers using more of the metal. Global lithium demand hit 1.6 million tons in 2025 and could double by 2030, but tight supply remains an issue as output struggles to keep up. Analysts say Europe and China will shape the lithium market through the next decade.

Growing EV adoption is setting the stage f…

Drill Success Lifts Junior Miners; Caspin Resources (ASX:CPN) Jumps on Tin Hit

July 15, 2026, 4:32 PM EDT. Junior mining stocks are seeing signs of life in July after a tough June, with Warwick Grigor at Far East Capital saying the group could be finding some support. Trading is picking up before conferences in Noosa and Kalgoorlie. Shares in Caspin Resources (ASX:CPN) surged 25% after the explorer hit 20m at 2.11% tin at Bygoo, which could work at shallow depth. Hedley Widdup at Lion Selection Group said the pressure from lower gold prices and geopolitical risks is easing, helping sentiment. White Cliff Minerals (ASX:WCN) also caught buying, pointing to a possible short-term floor for the sector as drill results stir interest and back a possible rebound for junior explorers.

The Power of a Drill Hit: Is support retur…

Aland Equity (ASX:AEG) Looks to Bungendore as Canberra House Shortage Bites

July 15, 2026, 4:31 PM EDT. Aland Equity Group (ASX:AEG) is turning to the Bungendore growth corridor as it chases opportunity in Canberra’s tight housing market. Steady public sector work has kept Canberra’s vacancy rate below 1% and household incomes high, which means tenants have cash. Land for new builds in Canberra is scarce, and with the city set to add 48,000 residents by 2030, some buyers are looking to Bungendore, where freehold land sells for 50-70% less than in the capital. Aland has rights to fund 4,200 lots in the area, including the 3,200-lot Chinnerys project. It’s using a property funds approach to target steady returns and management fees. The company is betting demand will continue for bigger houses outside the ACT’s limits.

Canberra’s housing crunch puts Aland’s Bun…

Perpetual gets higher $22.07-a-share non-binding EQT AB bid as strategic review goes on

July 15, 2026, 4:30 PM EDT. Perpetual Ltd (ASX: PPT) said it got a new non-binding offer from EQT AB raising the bid to $22.07 per share, up from the earlier $21.64. The offer still depends on Perpetual selling its Wealth Management business to Bain Capital plus more due diligence and ticking off regulatory steps. It’s not binding and could be pulled, but the board chose to make the offer public. Perpetual shares are down 9% for the year, while the S&P/ASX 200 index has gained 2%. The board says it’s still considering the bid and backs its focus on simplifying the business and diversifying income. Investors get no action point yet as the process continues.

Perpetual receives sweetened $22.07 EQT AB…

Polls: 61% of Australians Back House Price Falls, Upending Old Beliefs

July 15, 2026, 4:17 PM EDT. Fresh Resolve and Sky News polls show 61% of Australians now favor a fall in house prices, a sharp shift from the usual view that rising values are always popular with voters. Support for lower prices cuts across age, income, and party lines. Some homeowners still want price gains or steady values, but 14% surveyed were fine with drops of 20% or more. The numbers stand out against years of political orthodoxy on housing and come as the government works on reforms without aiming right at prices.

A generations-long shibboleth about house …

Morgans Starts LGI (ASX: LGI) at Buy, Sees 17% Upside on Utilities Name

July 15, 2026, 4:16 PM EDT. Morgans started coverage of LGI Ltd (ASX: LGI) with a buy rating, pointing to a possible 17% upside from here. The broker likes the biogas utilities firm’s growth levers, even with shares off more than 30% in 2026 as weak sentiment hit carbon credit prices. Morgans called out LGI’s FY26 update showing five new carbon sites and a 33% lift in electricity generation. Softer commodity prices led Morgans to cut EPS forecasts for FY27 and FY28, but the broker expects growth to pick up after 2027 thanks to development plans and new battery projects. Morgans set a new price target of A$3.10. Other analysts are even more bullish, with an average 12-month target sitting at 50% above current.

Morgans just placed a fresh buy rating on …

Bell Potter Sticks With Buy on Amplitude Energy (ASX: AEL) After Q2, Sees 80% Upside

July 15, 2026, 4:15 PM EDT. Amplitude Energy Ltd (ASX: AEL) shares have dropped over 50% in 2026, but Bell Potter kept its buy call and a $2.50 target, which points to close to 80% upside. The broker says Q2 matched expectations. Amplitude cut gas output because of soft demand and lower prices in eastern Australia, but still hit full-year production guidance. Cash sits at $138 million with low net debt. Amplitude says its East Coast Supply Project is still on budget to start production in 2028, with funding covered by cash flow and no extra capital needed. The Gippsland Basin asset is running near full capacity, with some room for more. Amplitude also has gas sales deals lined up for the Otway Basin, giving the company exposure to the east coast gas market.

Why this ASX energy stock could be set to …

Betashares ASX ETFs Pay Out Dividends Today, Including NDQ, GAME

July 15, 2026, 4:14 PM EDT. Betashares pays dividends today for its ASX-listed ETFs, with the payout round underway. Some of the main numbers: Betashares Australia 200 ETF (A200) at 98 cents per unit, Nasdaq 100 ETF (NDQ) at 90 cents. Hedged ETFs like HNDQ are showing returns up to 10x higher than unhedged versions thanks to currency moves. The Video Games and Esports ETF (GAME) is at 36 cents, while MNRS, the Global Gold Miners Currency Hedged ETF, pays 113 cents. Some funds offer big franking credits-GEAR hands out 325% franking on its distribution. Investors in Betashares’ lineup see solid dividend income this season as payouts track strong runs in tech, mining, and sustainability.

Own NDQ, GAME, or other Betashares ASX ETF…

CSL (ASX: CSL) shares edge up over 10 years, but pandemic and Vifor deal weigh

July 15, 2026, 3:59 PM EDT. CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL) shares ended the past decade up just 2%, closing at about A$121.75 after starting 2014 near A$119. With dividends of around A$30.57 per share, shareholders got a 28% return. The stock fell hard from a 2021 high near A$315, hit by COVID-related plasma supply problems, higher costs, and letdowns around the Vifor buy and lower vaccine sales. Some investors now doubt CSL’s growth outlook. Still, CSL holds major healthcare assets and strong science teams, so a rebound is possible if earnings and cost pressures settle. The market is now valuing CSL below its former high-growth run on the ASX.

How have CSL shares performed over 10 year…

How to Take Your Retirement Savings From $100,000 to $500,000: 3 Tactics

July 15, 2026, 3:28 PM EDT. If you’ve hit $100,000 in retirement savings, that’s a solid base, but getting to $500,000 means thinking a bit differently. First, step up future contributions-use salary sacrifice or set up automatic increases. That way, compounding can work on more than what you already have. Next, tilt the portfolio to growth-oriented assets-think stocks like ResMed (ASX: RMD), Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT), or broader ETFs like Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares (ASX: VGS)-to tap into both earnings growth and dividends. Just holding $100,000 with an 8% average return for 20 years comes close to $466,000 even without new contributions. Last, watch for small leaks: things like high account fees or duplicate accounts can eat into gains. Staying consistent and keeping costs down makes building that $500,000 more likely.

3 ways to get from $100,000 to $500,000 in…

UIL Limited Picks Up Another 30,000 2026 ZDP Shares From Its Own Subsidiary

July 15, 2026, 2:29 PM EDT. UIL Limited said July 15, 2026 it bought 30,000 zero dividend preference shares from UIL Finance Limited, its own subsidiary, paying 150.00p per share. The ZDP shares don’t pay dividends and have a set redemption date. UIL Limited is holding them as an investment. With this move, UIL Limited now owns 4,720,582 out of 25 million ZDP shares issued by UIL Finance. The shares are due for redemption on October 31, 2026. The total number of ZDP shares in the market doesn’t change, since this is an internal buyback.

REG – UIL Limited UIL Finance Ltd – Purcha…

SpaceX (NASDAQ:SPACEX) Shares Slip Under IPO Price Despite Stable Nasdaq

July 15, 2026, 2:28 PM EDT. SpaceX shares slipped to $132.62, now below their $135 IPO price from June and off 41% from the peak. The move comes with little change in the Nasdaq, where the stock trades. Elon Musk’s company has expanded into AI after buying SpaceXAI, which makes the Grok chatbot. Most of SpaceX’s revenue still comes from rockets and Starlink satellites. Investors have cooled after Starlink cut prices and tech stocks turned volatile. Market analyst Steve Sosnick said there aren’t any new drivers for the shares. The first public earnings report is set for August and could affect where SpaceX trades next.

SpaceX share price drops below stock marke…

NLB Cuts Threshold, Extends Deadline on Addiko Bank (ADI) Takeover Bid

July 15, 2026, 2:27 PM EDT. Nova Ljubljanska Banka (NLB) got the go-ahead from Austria’s Takeover Commission to drop the minimum acceptance level on its all-cash Addiko Bank AG bid down to just over 50%, from the previous 75%. The acceptance window is also extended to July 29, 2026. Shareholders who already accepted a rival offer now have until July 23, 2026 to change their minds. NLB’s offer is still at EUR 37.00 a share, which comes in 39.6% higher than RBI’s, making it the top-priced bid right now. NLB already has regulatory clearance in Serbia, Austria, and North Macedonia. The bank says the changes are meant to ease deal risk and get more shareholders on board.

REG – Nova Ljubljanska – Confirmed Thresho…

Global X pays out dividends for ASX ETFs ACDC, FANG, SEMI

July 15, 2026, 2:26 PM EDT. Global X is distributing dividends today for its ASX-listed ETFs. The Battery Tech & Lithium ETF (ACDC) leads with a $16.34 per unit payout, following a jump in lithium prices after supply-demand found balance in FY26. Lithium spodumene climbed 280%, while carbonate jumped 160%, with Australia’s mining sector boosted by demand from green energy and AI. Fang+ ETF (FANG) pays $3.36, and Semiconductor ETF (SEMI) pays $2.85 per unit. Dividend payouts reflect higher demand for critical minerals and tech sector growth.

Own ACDC, FANG, or SEMI ETF? Global X is p…

ASX 200 Set to Open Higher After Wall Street Gains; Energy Lags, Gold Stocks in Focus

July 15, 2026, 2:25 PM EDT. The S&P/ASX 200 Index closed up 0.35% on Wednesday at 8,841.1, showing a firmer trend. Futures were pointing to a 0.15% lift at the open, with the move echoing strength from US equities overnight as the Dow, S&P 500, and Nasdaq all posted gains. Bell Potter kept its buy rating on Evolution Mining (ASX: EVN) after cutting forecasts, citing quality assets and rising free cash flow. Energy names like Woodside Energy (ASX: WDS) and Santos (ASX: STO) could see some selling as oil slipped 0.5% following US missile strikes on Iran. Morgans upgraded ResMed (ASX: RMD) to a buy after it sold MatrixCare for $490 million, streamlining its operations. Gold edged up 0.1% to $4,071.80 an ounce, with Newmont (ASX: NEM) and Northern Star (ASX: NST) set to benefit.

5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Thursd…

HSBC Looks at Türkiye Banking Business, Joins SWIFT Blockchain Test for Cross-Border Payments

July 15, 2026, 2:09 PM EDT. HSBC Holdings LSE:HSBA said it started a review of its retail and domestic corporate banking in Türkiye to simplify its structure. The bank is also among the founding participants in SWIFT’s blockchain pilot, which aims to offer round-the-clock tokenized cross-border payments. With these steps, HSBC is signaling a push away from local retail banking to focus more on international and cross-border work. The Türkiye review could lower its capital demands in retail, while the SWIFT pilot keeps it close to new payment tech for transaction banking. Investors watching HSBC’s strategy and footprint may want to keep up with how this develops.

HSBC (LSE:HSBA) Reviews Türkiye Banking Bu…

RECI trust's 10.3% yield: £2,000 could be worth £2,396 by July 2027, analysts say

July 15, 2026, 10:12 AM EDT. Real Estate Credit Investments (LSE:RECI), a FTSE-listed trust lending to European property developers, is paying a 10.3% dividend yield. The shares are down 8% in the last year, leaving them at a 15% discount to net asset value. But the dividend has held at 3p per share each quarter. The trust makes money on higher rates in riskier parts of the real estate market. European interest rates are a risk, but analysts say it’s manageable. Forecasts show a possible 20% total return over four years if dividends keep coming and the NAV discount closes. On that math, a £2,000 investment could reach about £2,396 by July 2027, though this is not guaranteed.

By July 2027, £2k in this FTSE trust yield…

UK Penny Stocks See Action as FTSE 100 Slips on Weak China Data

July 15, 2026, 9:40 AM EDT. The FTSE 100 fell after Chinese trade numbers missed, drawing more eyes to penny stocks for possible value. Ashmore Group plc, worth £1.4 billion, posted 56.3% earnings growth but now faces lower forecasts, worries around non-cash earnings, and insider sales. Integrated Diagnostics Holdings plc, with a $301 million market cap, has 58% earnings growth and set a $150 million buyout deal that could see its shares delisted. McBride plc trades at a £286 million market cap. The household products player has a mix of analyst views. These small-caps may still offer investors growth chances while global markets stay shaky.

UK Penny Stocks To Watch In July 2026

Boku Sinks 53% After Profit Warning; Insiders Jump In

July 15, 2026, 9:27 AM EDT. Boku (LSE:BOKU) has dropped 53% year-to-date to 99p after its July 8 update slashed full-year revenue and profit guidance, blaming tougher competition and new regulatory challenges. Still, Canaccord Genuity holds a 263p target-165% up from here. Berenberg Bank’s is 200p. Boku, worth £292 million, handles mobile-based payments for emerging market users and counts Netflix and Spotify as partners. Growth was hit as a major merchant spread out business in Thailand, and regulations forced some service suspensions. Still, payment volumes gained 12% in H1, hitting $8.3 billion. The company entered Brazil and India, and its Stripe tie-up brings more opportunity. Analysts say risks remain but see room for gains.

Down 53% to 99p, insiders are loading up o…

Fermi Inc. Sells $431M in Convertible Notes to Fund Project Matador, Improve Liquidity

July 15, 2026, 9:26 AM EDT. Fermi Inc. has finished a $431.25 million deal to sell 5.00% Convertible Senior Notes due 2031, after boosting the size to include an extra $56.25 million option. The company used a capped call feature designed to limit dilution. The cash will increase liquidity as Fermi keeps working on tenant talks and partner deals, and puts money toward Project Matador, which is central for its energy delivery plans. The five-year notes give Fermi lower financing costs to push forward more than one commercial project at once. CFO Rob Masson said the move takes advantage of open credit markets and aims to limit shareholder dilution while keeping Fermi on track with its speed-to-power strategy.

RCS – Fermi Inc. – Strategic Rationale for…

International Paper (IP) sets Q3 2026 dividends on common, preferred shares

July 15, 2026, 9:25 AM EDT. International Paper (NYSE: IP) on Tuesday declared its Q3 2026 dividend at $0.4625 a share for common stock, payable 15 September 2026 to holders on record by 14 August 2026. The board also approved a $1.00 payout for its $4.00 cumulative preferred stock for the same period and date. The company is focused on returning cash to shareholders through steady dividends.

REG – International Paper

Barratt Redrow's £400M Return Wins Analyst Support Despite Profit Worries

July 15, 2026, 9:24 AM EDT. Barratt Redrow PLC LSE:BTRW is returning £400 million to shareholders, beating what the market was looking for. Investors and analysts welcomed the move in London, citing faith in how the builder is handling capital. Still, some are uneasy about profit risk as the sector faces headwinds. Barratt Redrow is going ahead with the payout, sticking to its plan to reward shareholders as it works through a tricky housing market.

Barratt Redrow's cash returns cheer analys…

Stocks and Shares ISA Seen Lifting UK Retirement Income Beyond State Pension

July 15, 2026, 9:06 AM EDT. The UK State Pension tops out at £12,548 a year, well below average earnings, raising worries about retirement income. Even putting £100 a month into a Stocks and Shares ISA can make a big difference, thanks to tax benefits. Looking at Admiral Group Plc, its shares posted about 9.2% yearly gains for 20 years and paid a 5-6% dividend yield, though the price can swing. Using a DRIP to reinvest those dividends pushes total annual returns to roughly 14-15%. Over two decades, that could turn regular ISA contributions into about £151,695, giving roughly £6,000 a year on a 4% drawdown-more than the State Pension. Investors with low income are urged to look at ISAs to help close the gap the State Pension leaves.

How a Stocks and Shares ISA can save you f…

India-UK Trade Pact Starts, Slashing Tariffs on Goods and Services

July 15, 2026, 8:51 AM EDT. The India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) is now active, cutting or ending tariffs on thousands of products. India now gets duty-free access for most British tariff lines, a shot in the arm for its textiles and IT sectors. UK gains include phased tariff cuts and new quotas, especially for cars. The deal covers 90% of Indian and 96.8% of British tariff lines, aiming to expand trade. India’s exports to the UK reached $13.44 billion, while imports stood at $11.68 billion for 2025-26. Services trade reached $35.44 billion in 2024, with India showing a $7.9 billion surplus. Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the agreement brings stronger ties and better mobility for Indian skilled workers.

India-UK trade deal comes into effect: Wha…

Boku (LSE:BOKU) Tumbles 53% in 2024, Brokers Still See Upside After Warning

July 15, 2026, 8:50 AM EDT. Shares in Boku (LSE:BOKU) fell 53% this year to 99p after the mobile payments firm cut its revenue and profit forecasts in a July update. Boku, valued at £292 million on the FTSE AIM 100, blamed competition, delays, and regulatory suspensions. Even so, Canaccord Genuity put a 263p target on the stock and Berenberg Bank set 200p, both more than double the last price. Boku handles mobile payments for Western brands in developing markets. The company lost contracts and dealt with tougher regulations lately, but has kept profits since 2021 and doubled revenue since 2022. Investors are still dealing with uncertainty, though the drop and insider buying may make the stock interesting.

Down 53% to 99p, insiders are loading up o…

All Resolutions Passed at Fair Oaks Income Ltd AGM

July 15, 2026, 8:21 AM EDT. Fair Oaks Income Limited said all resolutions were passed at its AGM on 15 July 2026. Shareholders backed the re-election of Richard Burwood, Fionnuala Carvill, and Trina Le Noury as directors. KPMG stays on as auditor after getting 81.69% support. Investors approved buybacks of up to 14.99% of ordinary shares and the issue of up to 8,116,308 new shares. The meeting also signed off on updated Articles of Incorporation. Votes withheld were not counted. Board says these results let them keep managing and buy back shares as set out under Guernsey law.

REG – Fair Oaks Income Ltd – Result of Ann…

Harwood Capital LLP Lifts Stake in Facilities by ADF PLC to 20.91%

July 15, 2026, 8:20 AM EDT. Harwood Capital LLP lifted its voting rights in Facilities by ADF PLC to 20.91% as of July 13, 2026, crossing the disclosure threshold for a major holding. The firm filed the notice on July 15, 2026. The move takes its direct voting rights across several share classes up to 22,550,000 votes. Before this, it had held 19.2%. Harwood Capital Management (Gibraltar) Limited is the registered office, while the firm is based in London.

REG – Facilities by ADF

Partnered Health Hit by Cyber-Attack, Thousands of Patient Records Stolen

July 15, 2026, 8:04 AM EDT. A cyber-attack on Partnered Health led to the theft of thousands of patient records, with data taken from 21 clinics in Sydney, Melbourne, and Canberra. The breach, found on June 23, included names, Medicare details, and medical records like consultation notes and pathology results. Partnered Health, currently owned by Quadrant and set for sale to Bupa, told authorities and the Australian Cyber Security Centre. The company got a court injunction to try to block misuse of the stolen information. The incident comes amid a record wave of data breaches in Australia, after a recent hack at Qantas hit 5.7 million customers.

Patient records stolen in cyber-attack on …

China GDP Rises 4.3%, Misses Official Target as Consumer Demand Drags

July 15, 2026, 7:48 AM EDT. China posted 4.3% year-on-year growth for Q2, falling short of the government’s 4.5-5% goal and ranking among its slowest quarterly GDP readings since the 1990s. Exports jumped 27% in June, but heavy foreign demand couldn’t offset weak consumer spending and soft investment at home. Vehicle sales slid over 16% even with a record 1 million cars shipped abroad, and fixed-asset investment, including infrastructure, dropped more than 4% in the first part of 2023-a rare pullback. Li Daokui, a top economist, said the weak spots in jobs and investment could derail China’s plans. Analysts are watching for possible new stimulus when Communist Party leaders meet amid current global and trade pressures.

China’s economy grows at one of its lowest…

FTSE 100 falls as mining shares drop on China growth miss; housebuilders gain

July 15, 2026, 7:18 AM EDT. The FTSE 100 slipped 0.2% Wednesday with miners down after China’s Q2 economic growth came in at 4.3%, shy of targets and raising worries on metals demand. The weak data added to ongoing rate and inflation jitters. HSBC, with heavy China exposure, also lost ground. Barratt Redrow and Persimmon bucked the trend, adding 2% and 1% after a positive update. ICG was the top FTSE performer, gaining 3% on upbeat trading and strong fund demand.

FTSE 100 dips again as miners weigh

AIM Movers: Profit Jump at James Cropper, Savannah Resources Details Barroso Lithium Plan

July 15, 2026, 7:17 AM EDT. James Cropper (LON: CRPR) saw pre-tax profit climb to £4.7 million for the fiscal year to March 2026, bouncing back on advanced materials growth and smaller losses in paper and packaging. Savannah Resources (LON: SAV) published a definitive feasibility study for the Barroso lithium project in Portugal, stating a 14-year mine life and $417 million upfront capex, with a $95 million grant from the Portuguese state helping with costs. Celebrus Technology (LON: CLBS) pushed annualised recurring revenue up 10% as it shifted to a software-as-a-service model, even with profit down, sending shares up 5.64%. Lendinvest (LON: LINV) moved back into the black with pre-tax profit of £4 million and saw assets rise 18% to £3.82 billion. Angus Energy (LON: ANGS) reported steady production after trading resumed but shares stayed jumpy.

AIM movers: James Cropper rebounds and Sav…

Brent Futures Move to Backwardation as Middle East Tensions Hit Oil Supply

July 15, 2026, 7:05 AM EDT. Brent crude futures turned to backwardation this week, with the September contract trading at $85.79 a barrel-around $8 above contracts for delivery six months later-as traders priced in tighter prompt supply. The move followed fighting in the Middle East, new tanker attacks in the Strait of Hormuz, and a returned U.S. blockade on Iranian oil shipments. In June, the Brent curve was in contango as peace talks and a pause in the blockade cut supply risks. That has swung back after renewed conflict, with worries about short-term supply now back in play.

Brent Futures Flip to Backwardation as Mid…

IMF Flags Risks as Oil Buffers Thin in US-Iran Standoff

July 15, 2026, 7:04 AM EDT. The IMF says low global oil reserves are making markets more exposed to price shocks as tensions run high between the US and Iran. Buffer inventories helped steady prices in earlier clashes, but now oil output has dropped below demand and reserves are being drained. Oil jumped over 10% after the Strait of Hormuz was closed, cutting off a route that carries about a fifth of the world’s crude. IMF data shows reserve releases, now down by half since the start of fighting, were enough to balance a 4 million barrel per day supply gap from March to May. Analysts say if stoppages persist, reserves could run out by early 2027 and prices could spike as high as $150 a barrel if blockages drag on.

Reserves that prevented 'full-blown' oil s…

FTSE 100 falls as Middle East worries weigh, miners drop

July 15, 2026, 7:03 AM EDT. The FTSE 100 slipped Wednesday, with investors wary on Middle East tensions. Mining stocks led losses. Energy names edged higher as oil prices rose, but it wasn’t enough to offset weakness in miners. Geopolitical risks kept sentiment shaky across sectors.

UK's FTSE 100 slips on Middle East tension…

Canaccord Starts Scottish Mortgage at Hold, Points to SpaceX Risk

July 15, 2026, 7:02 AM EDT. Canaccord Genuity initiated coverage of Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust PLC with a ‘hold’. The broker cited the trust’s large exposure to SpaceX and said holding too much in one private firm brings real risk. That heavy weighting could drag on performance if SpaceX runs into trouble. Scottish Mortgage invests in growth and tech, but Canaccord said the portfolio needs more spread. Concentration risk remains a key issue for investors watching the trust’s strategy.

Scottish Mortgage: Broker warns on SpaceX …

ASX ETFs to Watch in July: NDQ, MOAT, VAS

July 15, 2026, 5:59 AM EDT. Australian investors looking at ETFs in July might focus on a few key names. The Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ) gives tech-heavy U.S. exposure through big names like NVIDIA and Apple, plus themes like AI and cloud. VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat ETF (ASX: MOAT) holds U.S. companies picked for strong long-term advantages and mixes quality with a value tilt, with stocks such as Fortinet. For broad local exposure, Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS) tracks the S&P/ASX 300 for wide reach across banks, miners, and other sectors, including BHP and Commonwealth Bank. Each fund offers a different angle on growth, value, and sector mix.

3 amazing ASX ETFs I'd buy this month

2026 Market Crash Fears Fade; FTSE 100 Outlook Stays Strong

July 15, 2026, 5:58 AM EDT. Fears of a stock market crash before Christmas aren’t front and center as investors watch global risks and data. Even with geopolitical worries, 68% of Coinbase prediction market users expect the FTSE 100 to hit 11,000 in 2026, pointing to positive sentiment. The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX) is at 16.35, which is in the usual range-not anywhere close to the near-90 highs seen during the 2008 crash. There’s talk of an AI-fueled bubble, but Goldman Sachs says corporate profits and balance sheets look stronger than the late-’90s dotcom days. Crashes have happened before, but the timing is hard to call. Caution and cash reserves look more appealing to investors hunting for long-term chances if markets fall.

Will the stock market crash before Christm…

Bank of Queensland (ASX: BOQ): 4 Fast Ways to Size Up the Share Price

July 15, 2026, 5:25 AM EDT. Looking at Bank of Queensland Limited (ASX: BOQ), investors often watch a few main numbers. BOQ runs close to 200 branches, many led by owner-managers, underscoring its place in regional banking. The bank’s net interest margin comes in at 1.56%, under the 1.78% average for the big names on the ASX, so returns on lending are slimmer. Return on equity is 4.7%, well below the sector’s 9.35%. Seek users rate workplace culture 2.6 out of 5, lagging the industry’s 3.1. The CET1 ratio marks out how much capital BOQ has on hand-a key factor for stability. Those figures can help investors get a quick view of BOQ’s share price and where it stands.

4 quick ways to assess the BOQ share price

Partnered Health cyberattack hits patient data at 21 Australian clinics

July 15, 2026, 5:11 AM EDT. Partnered Health said a cyberattack hit patient data at 21 of its clinics across the country, exposing test results, consultation notes, and Medicare details. The breach stretches across locations in Sydney, Victoria, Queensland, Western Australia, and the ACT, hitting both medical and personal records. The health group, which runs 60 clinics, alerted patients more than three weeks after finding out about the attack and is still working out how much information was accessed. The Australian Cyber Security Centre and the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner are involved in the investigation. Partnered Health got a court injunction to block use of the stolen data and told patients to take steps to protect themselves.

Patient details exposed in cyberattack on …

Standard Chartered PLC Schedules July 29 Board Meeting on Interim Dividend, H1 Results

July 15, 2026, 5:10 AM EDT. Standard Chartered PLC said its board committee will meet July 29, 2026, to sign off on half-year results for the period ending June 30 and set the 2026 interim dividend. The bank said the proposed payout would go to UK shareholders on the register by 10:00 pm London time, and to Hong Kong shareholders by 9:00 am Hong Kong time, both as of August 7, 2026. Investors need to lodge share transfers by August 6, 2026, to be eligible. The company said the announcement is in line with listing rules in Hong Kong and lists its current board and governance details.

REG – Standard Chrtrd PLC

Football Faces Integrity Questions as Big Money Ramps Up Pressure

July 15, 2026, 4:56 AM EDT. Football’s integrity problem is in sharper focus as prize money and commercial stakes rise in events like the World Cup, where fair play is supposed to anchor the sport. The influx of cash and mounting pressure can shake efforts to keep the game clean. That makes it harder to know how fair the biggest matches really are, as both financial interests and on-field competition weigh on the system.

Football’s billion-dollar integrity proble…

Rolls-Royce ISA Could Hit £27,000 by 2028 on Cash Flow Target

July 15, 2026, 4:55 AM EDT. If Rolls-Royce Plc hits £5.2 billion in free cash flow and shares hit 1,900p, a £20,000 ISA investment could jump 35% to £27,000 by January 2028. That figure is based on a 30x multiple of next year’s free cash flow and possible £5 billion in buybacks. The projection carries risk, with the firm’s outlook vulnerable to market swings, leadership shifts or if Rolls-Royce cuts its mid-term cash flow aim. £20,000 is the full annual Stocks and Shares ISA limit, and shares now trade at a higher valuation. Diversification and pro financial advice are advised.

Here’s what a £20,000 ISA investment in Ro…

Facilities by ADF Sets Listing for 2.5 Million New Shares on AIM After Options Exercise

July 15, 2026, 4:39 AM EDT. Facilities by ADF plc said it’s adding 2.5 million new ordinary shares to trade on London’s AIM after recent option exercises. The move will bring the total shares outstanding to 110,322,776, effective July 20, 2026. The new shares will trade on equal terms with existing shares. The company said shareholders should note the updated count under UK disclosure rules.

REG – Facilities by ADF – Exercise of Shar…

Costain Group (LON:COST) wins three-year United Utilities contract extension

July 15, 2026, 4:38 AM EDT. Costain Group (LON:COST) has landed a three-year extension on its Managed Service Provider deal with United Utilities. The move covers the AMP8 capital maintenance programme and could carry Costain through AMP9 to 2035. The contract gives the £550 million firm better revenue visibility ahead of its results report on August 13. Costain has worked with United Utilities since 2019.

Costain Group: contract news is further ev…

Wesfarmers (ASX: WES) Climbs 28.6% Since May Low on Shift in Sentiment

July 15, 2026, 4:23 AM EDT. Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES) shares have jumped 28.6% since hitting a 52-week low of $70.80 in mid-May, trading at $91.03 in June 2026. The move is unusual for Wesfarmers, which is known for steady performance and a mix of retail brands including Kmart, Bunnings, Target and OfficeWorks, plus exposure to energy and lithium processing. The rally seems tied more to changing investor sentiment than to any recent company news, after fears earlier in the year over global trade risks from the March Strait of Hormuz closure. Even with fresh geopolitical worry over trade routes, Wesfarmers shares have stayed firm and investors seem to be betting on the company’s long-term mix of businesses.

This blue-chip ASX 200 stock is up 30% in …

London BTC Company (LSE:BTC) adds to Nevada metals ground

July 15, 2026, 4:22 AM EDT. London BTC Company Ltd (LSE:BTC) picked up more precious metals ground in Nevada after surface sampling at new spots. The mining company called it a strategic move to bulk up its metals portfolio with market interest in metal assets up. The new ground adds to efforts to catch the rising demand in metals.

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London BTC Company adds Nevada metal assets after sampling

July 15, 2026, 4:06 AM EDT. London BTC Company Ltd (LSE:BTC, OTCQB:VINZF) said it has picked up more precious metals ground in Nevada after surface sampling at new locations. The extra holdings boost its metals position in a major U.S. mining zone. The company called it a strategic move as interest in metal assets grows.

London BTC Company expands Nevada portfoli…