Stock Market Today: Live Updates 28.07.2026

ResMed CDI (ASX:RMD) falls 16.78% for the year as 2026 value outlook stays mixed

July 29, 2026, 3:59 AM EDT. ResMed CDI (ASX:RMD) shares have dropped 16.78% year-to-date as investors weigh the stock’s outlook. The company, which is based in San Diego and started in Australia, makes CPAP machines for sleep apnea and cloud-linked software. ResMed posted annual revenue of $4.685 billion, which gave it a 13.6% compound annual revenue growth over three years. Gross margin was 57.4%, and profits hit $1.021 billion, rising at a 29.1% CAGR for the same period. Its mix of hardware and software aims to cut healthcare costs and deliver data. Investors are still cautious and are looking closely at debt levels and returns. The numbers and growing reach leave the stock’s 2026 value view uncertain.

Are Resmed CDI (ASX:RMD) shares good value…

Centrica Shares Stand Out as Oil Jumps, Inflation Persists in UK

July 29, 2026, 3:54 AM EDT. Centrica shares moved ahead as oil broke above $100 and UK inflation stayed stubborn at 3.8%, a level some forecasts see sticking through 2027. Higher energy prices and persistent inflation had markets weighing the chance of more Bank of England rate hikes. Barclays, heavy in investment banking and U.S. credit cards, delivers strong returns but sees risk from UK economic weakness and big wholesale funding needs. Tesco faces a squeeze too, with rising costs and shoppers strained by inflation. Investors are watching Centrica as a potential winner in this environment, while both Barclays and Tesco look exposed to credit and cost risks.

Centrica Stock Stands Out As Oil Prices An…

Ecora Royalties Quarterly Portfolio Contribution Up 61% to $19M

July 29, 2026, 3:50 AM EDT. Ecora Royalties PLC said its quarterly portfolio contribution jumped 61% year-on-year to US$19 million. The LSE- and TSX-listed company posted the gain as royalty income rose in strong mining markets. Ecora credited its portfolio mix and investments for the jump. The company said the results show resilience for royalty models through volatile commodity prices.

Ecora Royalties reports 61% jump in strong…

Severfield (LON:SFR) Up 40% in Six Weeks After Data Centre Deals, Calling This a Transition Year

July 29, 2026, 3:46 AM EDT. Severfield (LON:SFR) shares jumped 40% in six weeks after the company issued a trading update before its AGM. Shares had fallen 42% last year. The UK steel group pointed to key contract wins in UK and European data centre projects. Severfield called this a ‘transition year.’ Analysts flagged its order book and continued banking support as reasons to expect improvement after the rough 2023.

Severfield: after 42% loss last year, now …

ASX 200 Hits Fresh High, Healthcare Stocks Out Front Wednesday

July 29, 2026, 3:41 AM EDT. The S&P/ASX 200 Index jumped 1.01% to 9,038.6, the strongest level since February. Every sector finished higher, with healthcare jumping 4.24% to lead. Consumer discretionary was up 2.37% and consumer staples advanced 1.98%. Lovisa Holdings (ASX: LOV) gained 7.88%, CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL) rose 7.15%, and Domino’s Pizza Enterprises (ASX: DMP) added 5.28%. The rally came after mixed U.S. action, with the Dow up 1.03% and the Nasdaq off 0.22%. Utilities and financials lagged, rising 0.25% and 0.19%. Broader optimism was clear across industrials, mining, tech, and communication shares.

Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today

Caspin Jumps on New Tin Finds; AT4 Buys Nevada Antimony Plant, Plans Capacity Hike

July 29, 2026, 3:37 AM EDT. Caspin Resources (ASX:CPN) jumped 33.3% after the company posted fresh high-grade tin hits at its Kelpie project in NSW, with intercepts like 3 meters at 9.32% tin and 20 meters at 1.79%. The new finds push mineralisation further than current resource outlines and open up scope for deeper drilling. American Tungsten & Antimony (ASX:AT4) also announced it will acquire the Del Sol antimony refinery in Nevada, stepping up its U.S. processing. The site is permitted for 18,500 tonnes a year now, with plans to ramp that up to 100,000 tonnes. AT4 aims to build itself into a vertically integrated supplier for antimony and tungsten to Western buyers.

Resources Top 5: Caspin keeps high-grade t…

ASX 200 jumps 1% as healthcare leads gains after soft CPI data

July 29, 2026, 3:32 AM EDT. The S&P ASX 200 climbed 1.02% on the day, with all 11 sectors moving higher. Healthcare stocks led after weaker inflation data eased worries about near-term rate hikes. CSL surged 6.7%. Sigma rose 2.59% and Resmed added 3.87%. Mach7 Technologies delivered its third straight quarter of positive cash flow and kept revenue guidance steady. Greatland Resources topped production and cost targets for gold but dipped 0.97%. Aeris Resources matched copper and precious metals guidance though costs came in higher. Investors piled into defensive and value names, encouraged by the less aggressive rate outlook and company updates.

Closing Bell: Healthcare delivers, ASX sur…

US Market Faces Choppy Year but Longer-Term Tech Bets Hold Up

July 29, 2026, 3:28 AM EDT. The US market is set for more volatility in the next year, with worries over AI-linked debt and possible credit trouble raising bailout risks. Still, the five-year outlook stays positive. A crash could open up a buying opportunity in AI and tech. Australia’s new rules help cushion its market, and commodities may see gains. Near-term risks are up, but investors might find value down the road in AI and commodities.

Is The US Empire Crumbling?

Ofgem Plans New Commitment Fees for Data Centre Grid Connections

July 29, 2026, 3:23 AM EDT. Ofgem opened a consultation on fees for speculative data centre projects crowding the UK’s grid connection queue. Contracted demand jumped to 125GW from 41GW, with data centres making up 73GW of that. The regulator wants a refundable Data Centre Commitment Fee when accepting connection offers, but developers would lose the fee if they pull out early. Projects would need to hit set financial and commercial milestones to keep their place in the queue. Ofgem said a lot of queued projects might never get built, confusing investment signals. Energy Minister Michael Shanks backed the reforms, saying they’re needed to get shovel-ready projects on the grid faster and shield consumers, as part of the Demand Connections Reform programme.

Ofgem targets speculative data centre proj…

S&P 500 Could Gain 6% by Year-End on £3,200 Investment, Say Experts

July 29, 2026, 3:18 AM EDT. The S&P 500 is up 16% in the last year, drawing UK investors looking for AI and tech exposure. Forecasts now call for the index to finish the year at an average 7,857, a rise of nearly 6% from 7,418. UBS and Citi have targets as high as 8,250. That would lift a £3,200 investment to about £3,392 if predictions hold. Analysts say sectors like banking may beat the index, helped by higher U.S. rates. JPMorgan Chase has gained 19% in 12 months and could keep climbing into 2026.

By the end of the year, experts think £3,2…

Reckitt Benckiser launches £500m buyback as Q2 sales pick up

July 29, 2026, 3:13 AM EDT. Reckitt Benckiser Group PLC LSE:RKT said it will start a £500 million share buyback after reporting faster second-quarter sales in every region and category. The consumer goods company pointed to strong demand and growth, saying this led to the payout for shareholders. Buybacks cut the number of shares in the market, which can lift earnings per share. The announcement points to management’s confidence in Reckitt’s market performance with competition still tough.

Reckitt launches £500m buyback as quarterl…

AI Director Flags Risks as Albanese Government Pushes Chief AI Officer Mandate

July 29, 2026, 3:09 AM EDT. Australia’s move to require chief artificial intelligence officers across all federal agencies risks falling short if roles stay vague, Datacom AI director Lou Compagnone said. CAIOs, appointed since July, lead agency AI projects, including rolling out generative AI and staff training. But Compagnone said agencies have often rushed these hires with no clear strategy, turning AI into scattered “AI confetti” without results. He said CAIOs need to coordinate real value from AI, fix gaps in governance and risk, and work across leadership to avoid “organ rejection”-where AI never embeds into day-to-day work. The push shows Canberra is serious about AI leadership, but Compagnone warned that results depend on proper planning and execution.

Government AI chiefs doomed to fail withou…

Goodman Group Drops While Pilbara Minerals Trades Above Recent Lows in Early 2025

July 29, 2026, 3:04 AM EDT. Goodman Group ASX:GMG shares are down 5.4% since the start of 2025. The company, which runs warehouses and logistics assets in six countries, carries a dividend yield of 1.03%, below its 5-year average of 1.28% after a recent cut in payouts. Pilbara Minerals ASX:PLS is up 160% from its 52-week low, with shares changing hands at 10.56 times sales. That’s well under the 5-year average of 20.35 times, which may point to undervaluation as lithium markets react to EV and renewables demand swings.

I’m keeping an eye on GMG shares in 2026

Wealthy Families Book Remote Holidays for Digital Detox, Bain Finds

July 29, 2026, 2:59 AM EDT. Wealthy families are picking remote holiday destinations to get offline and spend more time together. Bain & Co said trips to less typical luxury spots climbed 20% from last year. Ultra-high-net-worth travelers are going for safaris, private yacht cruises, and island retreats-experiences designed to keep them unplugged. These group trips, often with multiple generations, usually cost more than $100,000. Wealth advisers are seeing more families design custom retreats built around shared time, with less focus on place.

Wealthy families chase remote holidays for…

AUD/USD Drops Out of Channel After Softer Australia CPI; RBA Hikes Seen Done

July 29, 2026, 2:55 AM EDT. June inflation in Australia came in at 3.8% year-on-year, missing the RBA’s May estimate. All four big Australian banks now say the rate hike cycle is finished, with Westpac joining the rest after the weaker CPI. AUD/USD broke below the uptrend channel, with 0.6750 as the next spot to watch. The market now sees rates on hold unless inflation surprises. Attention turns to the Fed’s rate announcement later today, which could swing AUD/USD further as global uncertainty lingers. The Aussie slips with no RBA hikes ahead, making it more exposed to changes in global rates.

AUD/USD Breaks Lower as Australia CPI Seal…

Telecom Plus PLC Lists 18,315 More Shares on LSE Main Market

July 29, 2026, 2:50 AM EDT. Telecom Plus PLC put 18,315 extra ordinary shares, each 5 pence, onto the London Stock Exchange Main Market. Total shares now stand at 78,110,364, with the new ones fully fungible. The admission ties to the firm’s Employee Share Option Plan and Omnibus Plan from May 26 to July 25, 2026. The company put out a regulatory notice on July 29, 2026, for the updated share count under its block listing. Telecom Plus PLC’s LEI is 549300QGHDX5UKE58G86.

REG – Telecom Plus PLC

IHG Buys Back 1 Million Shares to Cut Count, Cancel Stock

July 29, 2026, 2:46 AM EDT. InterContinental Hotels Group PLC bought 1 million ordinary shares for cancellation on July 28, 2026, using Goldman Sachs International on the London Stock Exchange. The buyback priced shares between $158.20 and $162.20, averaging $159.59. Authority for the move came from the 2025 Annual General Meeting. IHG will cancel these shares, dropping issued shares to 148.6 million, not counting 5.4 million held in treasury. The company says the buyback reduces share count to return value to shareholders. More details are on the London Stock Exchange.

InterContinental Hotels Group PLC Announce…

EGT pulls in £6.8m after Wind Energy Services deal, sees £50m medium-term revenue goal

July 29, 2026, 2:42 AM EDT. European Green Transition (EGT) said it pulled in £6.8 million in statutory revenue in the four months after buying Wind Energy Services, picking it up from Arena Capital Partners’ liquidation. For the half-year to June 30, the business made about £8.5 million, helped by demand for repowering orders to stretch turbine life. EGT’s orderbook lists 65 signed heads of terms, covering 900 turbines, with a pipeline valued at £126 million. The group now holds 79% of Anemos Analytics and wrapped up H1 2026 debt-free, sitting on £5.8 million cash. EGT sees full-year wind services revenue at £17-18 million and is targeting £50 million group revenue with double-digit EBITDA margins in the medium term.

European Green Transition posts £6.8m reve…

CSL up 3.5% after Horizon 2 trial update

July 29, 2026, 2:38 AM EDT. CSL Limited shares rose 3.5% to about A$123.68 after the company said it has set out a clinical trial pathway for the Horizon 2 program. The company wants to validate newer therapies to back up its pipeline and boost investor confidence. The upcoming trials are a key step for the development pipeline. Investors took the news as a sign of focus on new treatments and possible benefits for CSL’s future earnings.

CSL shares rise as Horizon 2 clinical tria…

ASIC flags home loan offset errors, says Australians could be overcharged

July 29, 2026, 2:32 AM EDT. ASIC says banks have miscalculated interest on home loans for some Australians by not correctly applying offset account balances. Offset accounts are designed to cut mortgage interest by subtracting the offset balance from the loan principal. With about 55% of home loans tied to offset accounts now holding $349 billion, the watchdog warns the impact could be big. Lenders have paid $55 million in compensation so far, and more payouts could follow. Experts say customers should check their offset links and interest calculations using online banking or their statements. Paying fortnightly instead of monthly can also reduce total interest. Consumers are urged to contact their bank quickly to make sure they’re getting the full offset savings they’re owed.

Have you been paying the right interest on…

ASX Jumps 1.2% as Inflation Slows; GF Value Flags 207.6% Overvaluation, Worries on Growth

July 29, 2026, 2:27 AM EDT. The S&P/ASX 200 Index rose 1.2% on July 29, 2026 after annual inflation came in at 3.8% for June, slightly under estimates. Still, the ASX trades 207.6% above its GF Value™, which tracks price against fundamentals. Unprofitable growth in listed stocks is in focus, with questions about how long the rally can last. Some investors are skittish as elevated valuations meet mixed results in earnings.

ASX Looks 207.6% Overvalued on GF Value™ A…

Premier African Minerals pulls in £550,000 as Canmax talks drag on

July 29, 2026, 2:23 AM EDT. Premier African Minerals said it brought in about £550,000 from a share subscription priced at 0.01375 pence per share. The funds go to keeping the Zulu Lithium and Tantalum Project running in Zimbabwe. The AIM miner put out 4 billion new shares for working capital as it tries to keep things moving while talks continue with its Chinese partner Canmax Technologies over a possible extension of their long stop date. Premier has repeatedly failed to hit lithium production goals and faces penalties, which has kept the Canmax dispute alive. MD Graham Hill said the new capital will help keep mining and stockpiling going, and support planning for new output once there’s a revised timeline. Premier said it will update the market when talks end or if something material changes.

Premier African Minerals raises £550,000 a…

EV Producers in China, Thailand Offer Clues as Australia Drops Local Carmaking

July 29, 2026, 2:16 AM EDT. Australia has exited car manufacturing, leaving decisions about its future auto market to imports. Global electric vehicle (EV) leaders are in focus. China tops EV production and tech, while Thailand is ramping up as a regional carmaker and EV assembler. China relies on heavy manufacturing, while Thailand plays on assembling imports. Where Australia heads next with its market will depend on choices made as the world moves further into electric vehicles and cleaner transport.

Global EV leaders, domestic laggards: What…

ASX draws inflows as Nasdaq, Kospi tech stocks sell off

July 29, 2026, 2:11 AM EDT. Money moved back toward the Australian Securities Exchange ASX as tech stocks slid on the Nasdaq and South Korea’s Kospi. The ASX, usually light on artificial intelligence AI names, saw buyers come in as worries built around semiconductors, which have driven recent gains in the US and Asia. The shift is putting the ASX in play as a safety option for investors unsettled by swings in global growth stocks.

Investors return to ASX as tech sell-off t…

IHG to Cancel 1,000 Shares, Cutting Share Count

July 29, 2026, 2:07 AM EDT. InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) said it plans to cancel 1,000 shares. Shares traded between $158.20 and $162.20. Once cancelled, IHG will have 148,603,282 shares outstanding, not counting 5,431,782 shares in treasury. Cancelled shares mean a lower total count, which can raise the value of shares left.

InterContinental Hotels Group Intends to C…

MONEYME (ASX:MME) hits new high for loan originations with AI push

July 29, 2026, 1:35 AM EDT. MONEYME (ASX:MME) posted record loan originations last quarter, CEO Clayton Howes told host Tylah Tully. The fintech says it’s using AI to drive efficiency and improve profits. Howes said AI now helps sharpen lending decisions in a tough market. MONEYME’s numbers point to more demand for its digital loans. The company is betting on tech to keep expanding in consumer finance. The discussion is based on company views only. Investors should still get their own financial advice.

Long Shortz with MONEYME: Record quarterly…

Golden Globe Resources (ASX: GGR) hits copper-gold zones at Dooloo Creek in first round

July 29, 2026, 1:20 AM EDT. Golden Globe Resources (ASX: GGR) reported Phase 1 drilling results from its Dooloo Creek project in Queensland. The company confirmed copper-gold mineralisation at the Northern Gold and Eastern Breccia areas. One intercept at Northern Gold showed 7.38m at 0.55% copper and 0.46 g/t gold. Another result at Eastern Breccia recorded 45.55m at 0.07% copper and 0.43 g/t gold. Golden Globe said the results line up with geophysical and surface geochemistry data, pointing to a bigger hydrothermal system. Phase 2 drilling is under way, with the focus on deeper targets and higher grades to help tighten up the geological model and get a read on the scale of mineralisation.

Golden Globe Resources Validates Dooloo Cr…

Queensland, NT push back on federal renewable plan for AI datacentres

July 29, 2026, 1:04 AM EDT. Queensland and the Northern Territory are pushing back against federal Labor’s plan to force AI datacentres onto renewable energy, saying the policy is “underdeveloped.” The federal move would require new datacentres to use more renewables, cut water use, and improve energy efficiency as AI demands drive up power usage. S&P Global says datacentre demand could jump fivefold by 2035, which could mean higher bills. Despite objections from the states, Canberra still wants a single set of rules nationwide, including a requirement that datacentres put renewable energy back into the grid. Queensland says its focus is on cheap, reliable power and says it does not want more federal control. The Northern Territory also objects to parts of the rules. Federal officials say opposition from the states will not stop the plan.

Queensland and NT reject Labor’s push to e…

Andromeda Metals (ASX:ADN) launches HPA pilot plant, starts optimisation push

July 29, 2026, 1:03 AM EDT. Andromeda Metals (ASX:ADN) has fired up its high purity alumina (HPA) pilot plant in South Australia and started lab optimisation aimed at delivering commercial HPA samples by H2 2026. The team is refining a continuous flowsheet to reach 99.9985% purity, above the standard 4N grade. HPA is key for LEDs, lithium-ion batteries and semiconductors, but is usually expensive and has a high environmental footprint. ADN says its own method could cut emissions 48% and set pricing at around US$3,020 per tonne, compared to the usual US$20,000. The pilot is running on kaolin from its Great White project. At the same time, ADN is looking for extra value from co-products like silica and gallium, which could improve economics. Customer feedback from sample testing will shape the next development steps before further feasibility work.

Andromeda Metals starts HPA pilot plant op…

First Lithium (ASX:FL1) gets $1.2M loan, moves ahead on Mali licence renewals

July 29, 2026, 12:48 AM EDT. First Lithium (ASX:FL1) said it made headway on Mali licence renewals for its Gouna and Faraba lithium prospects, with the process now heading for cabinet sign-off. The group locked in a debt-to-equity conversion and landed a $1.2 million loan from sophisticated investors to help with licence work and a maiden Blakala resource. The cash comes in two tranches, offers 10% annual interest, and gives investors a shot at shares at a 25% discount. MD Venkatesh Padala called the licence push a confidence booster and said it matters for getting ASX trading back up. The money will go to renewing licences key for future lithium extraction. CPS Capital backs the unsecured loan. First Lithium said this should help its balance sheet and get resource estimates out, which matter for moving its projects forward in Mali.

First Lithium secures $1.2m funding as Mal…

Verity Resources (ASX: VRL) posts first Indicated resource at Monument Gold Project

July 29, 2026, 12:47 AM EDT. Verity Resources (ASX: VRL) put out its first Indicated mineral resource estimate for the Monument Gold Project in Western Australia. The company reported 1.18 million tonnes at 1.75g/t gold, for 66,200 ounces after an 11,000-metre infill drill program. The total resource now sits at 2.5 million tonnes at 1.72g/t gold, or 137,700 ounces. The update brings a new high-grade underground resource of 77,100 ounces. Metallurgy results show gold recoveries up to 97%, which supports conventional processing. At the same time, soil sampling turned up significant gold-in-soil anomalies, pushing out known mineralized zones. Verity has started a 2,800m aircore drill program targeting further mineralisation across the 20km corridor. In Botswana, exploration activity has started as part of the southern African portfolio.

Verity Resources Announces Maiden Indicate…

Cochlear Ltd (COH) Falls 53% in 2025 While Healthcare Lags Broader Market

July 29, 2026, 12:36 AM EDT. Cochlear Ltd ASX:COH shares have dropped 53.3% since early 2025. The Sydney company makes hearing implants, with revenue up over the past three years, but the stock hasn’t kept pace. Healthcare, usually seen as a defensive spot for its sticky revenue, has trailed this time. The S&P/ASX200 Healthcare Index is off 9.54% a year for five years, while the ASX 200 fared better. Global healthcare spending is still on track to rise 7% annually through 2027, led by the US. COH’s price-to-sales sits at 3.57x, below its five-year average, which could flag it as cheap. There’s also growing investor interest in sustainable and ethical investments, a trend that could help healthcare names.

A deep dive into COH shares

Aristocrat Leisure ASX:ALL Shares Up 13.74% This Year as Key Numbers Hit Targets

July 29, 2026, 12:35 AM EDT. Aristocrat Leisure Ltd ASX:ALL shares have climbed 13.74% so far this year, lifted by firm numbers. The gaming machine maker reported $6.6 billion in annual revenue, with a 3-year CAGR of 11.7%. Gross margin held at 58.6%. Net profit came in at $1.3 billion, up at a 16.7% CAGR over three years. Net debt totals $1.45 billion, while the debt/equity ratio is 38.3%. Return on equity runs at 20%. With steady growth in revenue and profit, ALL is on watch heading into 2025 as it pushes further into online and machines.

6 key numbers to value ALL shares

Australian Fuel Excise Discount to End Monday as Oil Prices Jump

July 29, 2026, 12:34 AM EDT. The government’s temporary fuel excise discount for Australian motorists finishes Monday, with the relief that knocked up to 32 cents a litre off petrol set to expire. Treasurer Jim Chalmers said the scheme was always meant to be short-term. The end of the discount comes as global oil prices climb on fresh U.S.-Iran tensions and disruptions to key shipping lanes. Oil has recently traded above $100 a barrel, adding to pressure at the pump. The Treasury has warned that the world oil market’s resilience is under strain from conflict and supply issues, signaling higher crude prices ahead. The federal government has not moved to extend the fuel discount and says national supplies are steady.

Motorists to lose fuel discount from Monda…

Megaport (ASX: MP1) jumps 155% since April low; Medallion flags stock as 'hold'

July 29, 2026, 12:33 AM EDT. Megaport Ltd (ASX: MP1) has climbed 155% off its April multi-year low of $6.40, but the shares slipped 8.6% to $16.30 in recent trading. The company posted a 26% gain in revenue to $134.9 million and saw annual recurring revenue for H1 FY 2026 up 49%. Analyst Philippe Bui at Medallion Financial pointed to Megaport’s position in network-as-a-service, with data centre builds and cloud adoption fueling demand. EBITDA rose 28% to $35.3 million. Bui called the shares a ‘hold,’ noting much of the upside is already in the price. CEO Michael Reid said recent acquisitions and capital raises are setting Megaport up for growth in network, compute, and AI.

Up 155% since April, is it too late to buy…

Stelar Metals ASX:SLB Cleared for First Tungsten Drilling at Hill of Leaders

July 29, 2026, 12:32 AM EDT. Stelar Metals ASX:SLB has received the environmental sign-off for its maiden 3,000m RC drill program at Hill of Leaders in the Northern Territory. The company plans to drill across more than 2km of strike and 200m of width, going after depth extensions below high-grade surface tungsten, with assays up to 6.1% WO3. Previous shallow drilling and new AI-assisted geophysics work have defined where rigs will target. Executive Chair Stephen Biggins said the project’s scale and grades are rare, pitching it as one of the country’s biggest untested tungsten plays. The drill rig is set to mobilise next month, in what will be the most extensive deep test since tungsten was first found at the site in 1951.

Stelar Metals scores approval for maiden t…

Carnavale Resources Talks Up Kookynie Gold Project Progress, Eyes Low-Capex Path

July 29, 2026, 12:31 AM EDT. Carnavale Resources (ASX:CAV) CEO Humphrey Hale said the company is making headway on the Kookynie Bankable Feasibility Study and is keeping a tight lid on capital costs. The Kookynie project in Western Australia has a high-grade gold resource, and recent exploration could add more ounces. Hale said Carnavale is moving closer to production and staying focused on costs. He spoke in an interview, noting these comments aren’t investment advice.

Long Shortz with Carnavale Resources: Prog…

KALiNA Power (ASX: KPO) moves Alberta projects forward as Meta backs new data centre build

July 29, 2026, 12:16 AM EDT. KALiNA Power (ASX: KPO) is pushing ahead with Alberta power projects after selling a 180MW load allocation to Meta for C$18 million. The company, which kept five secured sites, is riding a surge in AI data centre demand after Meta announced its C$13 billion AI centre plan. Alberta’s new regulatory moves make it easier to connect to the grid, dropping emissions abatement mandates and letting generators pay carbon tax. The province also plans a Large Load Allocation Process for August 2026 to drive more data centre builds. Managing Director Ross MacLachlan said speed is key for hyperscalers. KALiNA is working on several projects, with applications in AESO clusters two and three and aiming for service by mid-2029. Talks with gas suppliers and investors are ongoing, and sector activity remains strong.

KALiNA Power Rides Alberta Tailwinds as Ca…

ASX Jumps After Australia Inflation Slows; Cash, Term Deposits Offer Positive Real Returns

July 29, 2026, 12:15 AM EDT. The S&P/ASX 200 Index climbed 1.49% and broke above the 9,000 mark after new Australian inflation numbers came in softer than forecast, with Q2 at 0.6%, or an annualised 3.8%. Core inflation tracked by the Reserve Bank of Australia landed at 3.6%, still over the RBA’s 2-3% comfort zone. The cooler print eases some pressure over more rate hikes, though the cash rate stays high at 4.35%. For investors focused on capital protection and steady income, the current setup looks like a rare shot. Term deposits and savings accounts now pay more than 5%, beating inflation-a real return not seen since 2011. The outlook for rates is still cloudy, but high-yield, low-risk options now stack up for Australians who want to keep capital risk low.

ASX investors have a once-in-a-decade oppo…

Retail Stocks That Could See Gains If the US Dollar Stays Strong

July 28, 2026, 11:58 PM EDT. Oil is trading north of $100 a barrel and inflation jitters remain, so investors are watching currencies more closely. A stronger dollar can help companies with big overseas sales or those reliant on imports. NEXT (LSE:NXT), a UK retailer valued at £17.4 billion, could cut sourcing costs and leverage its international mix. The company has a return on equity above 50% and profit margins at 12.9%, though high debt and an unsteady UK retail scene are hurdles. Watches of Switzerland Group (LSE:WOSG) is another, with luxury watch sales across the UK, Europe and US, and it stands to benefit from ongoing luxury demand and moves in forex. Both names show how exchange rates and the Fed’s next steps are shaping retail outlooks.

3 Retail Stocks That Could Benefit From A …

ASX Up 1% as Rio Tinto Earnings Jump, CPI Slows

July 28, 2026, 11:45 PM EDT. The S&P/ASX 200 gained 1% by midday Wednesday, led by broad sector strength and lighter inflation figures. Australia’s CPI rose 0.6% for the quarter, up 3.8% from a year ago, fueling speculation the RBA could hold off on more rate moves. Rio Tinto’s underlying earnings rose 43% to US$6.85 billion and the company raised its interim dividend 43% to US$3.4 billion. Shares were helped by the miner’s focus on battery minerals. CSL jumped more than 5% after plasma manufacturing improvements pointed to better capacity and margins. Northern Star Resources and other miners also delivered solid quarterlies, helping support sentiment even as macro concerns lingered.

Lunch Wrap: ASX rallies as Rio serves up c…

Orpheus Uranium (ASX: ORP) starts first drill program at Frome Project, South Australia

July 28, 2026, 11:44 PM EDT. Orpheus Uranium (ASX: ORP) has kicked off its initial drilling at the Frome Project in South Australia. The program covers up to 35 holes for about 5,750 meters, mainly focused on uranium-hosting palaeochannels at the Erudina prospect. Crews will use the first holes to update the geological model by checking rock layers and oxidation levels before moving forward with the rest of the work. Past results identified uranium oxide anomalies above 100ppm across 64 holes. The site is in the Callabonna Sub-Basin, a region with notable uranium finds such as Boss Energy’s (ASX: BOE) projects. Orpheus is looking to set an Exploration Target and estimate a mineral resource, citing the similarities in the geology to nearby uranium systems.

Orpheus Uranium Begins Inaugural Drilling …

WAM Backs $40M SCX.ai IPO as Investors Eye Australian AI Infrastructure

July 28, 2026, 11:43 PM EDT. Wilson Asset Management and Ellerston Capital are backing SCX.ai’s $40 million IPO. The company is set to become the first pure-play sovereign AI inference-as-a-service provider on the ASX. The offer has seen strong interest from institutions with the book closing Wednesday. SCX.ai’s platform handles AI inference for tools like chatbots and document analysis, using existing data centres in Australia to skip building new infrastructure. CEO David Keane said investors are shifting focus to AI infrastructure that runs applications securely and efficiently, rather than just funding new AI models. The float comes as data centre water consumption is set to rise sharply by 2031, raising environmental concerns.

WAM backs SCX.ai IPO as sovereign AI infra…

US Bull Market Wobble Signals Trouble for Commodities, With Analysts Looking Back to the 1970s

July 28, 2026, 11:29 PM EDT. The US stock rally may be running out of steam, putting the commodity trade at risk. Commodities typically track global growth tied to the US tech sector. In the 1970s, stocks tumbled during the 1973-75 crash, hit by the oil shock and inflation, and commodity markets saw mixed moves. That era brought the Nifty Fifty boom, then steep losses, followed by a stagflation mess. Some analysts see parallels now, with markets near records but signs of strain, like Australian property cooling. The big question is whether a US stock drop would break the commodity cycle for good. For now, traders are watching for more clues as the market shifts.

Will a US Stock Market Crash Kill the Comm…

Iron Bear (ASX:IBR) PFS Values Canadian Iron Ore Project at $9B NPV

July 28, 2026, 11:28 PM EDT. Iron Bear Resources (ASX:IBR) has put out a pre-feasibility study for its iron ore project in Canada, showing a post-tax NPV of US$9 billion and an IRR of 15.2%. The numbers back a planned 44-year mine life with a probable ore reserve of 3.3 billion tonnes and starting annual production of 23 Mtpa. Iron Bear is aiming at high-grade iron products-blast furnace concentrate and direct reduction pellets-that help cut emissions. The mine plan uses less than 25% of the overall resource, leaving room to grow. Power comes from Churchill Falls hydro. There’s a partnership with Vale S.A., and the firm is looking to sell into Europe, North Africa, and the U.S., targeting demand and higher prices for direct reduction pellets.

Iron Bear roars with successful PFS for 44…

ASX 200 Climbs as June Inflation Slows, RBA Seen Holding Rates

July 28, 2026, 11:27 PM EDT. Australia’s CPI for June came in at 3.8% year-over-year, easing from 4.0% in May. Housing costs were up 6.8%. The RBA’s preferred trimmed mean measure held at 3.6%, under expectations. After the numbers, the S&P/ASX 200 was up 0.5% and later traded 1.2% higher. Analysts such as eToro’s Josh Gilbert said weaker inflation figures reduce the odds of a rate hike in August. Still, core inflation staying above the RBA’s 2.5% target means rates are set to stay high. The central bank meets again on August 11. Investors welcomed the steady policy outlook but were warned not to expect cuts soon.

Buying ASX 200 shares? Here's what the Jun…

WTC drops nearly 49% this year; CSL lags 52-week high, keeps steady financials

July 28, 2026, 11:16 PM EDT. WiseTech Global Ltd ASX:WTC shares are down 48.9% in 2025 even as revenue has climbed 27.1% a year since 2021 and net profit jumped to $263 million for FY24. The company’s CargoWise platform is still a mainstay for logistics. CSL Ltd ASX:CSL is trading 54.2% under its 52-week high. CSL has kept its financials solid this year with a 62.8% debt/equity ratio and 14.6% ROE in FY24. The biotech’s dividend yield has held near 1.5% since 2020, making CSL a go-to for Australians focused on reliability in healthcare stocks.

WTC and CSL shares: 2 ASX shares to watch

CSL ASX:CSL jumps 6% after plasma manufacturing expansion news

July 28, 2026, 11:15 PM EDT. CSL Ltd ASX:CSL shares jumped 6% after it said it plans to expand plasma manufacturing. The company wants to lift its capacity for plasma-derived therapies, which it says is a key growth area. Investors took the news as positive for future sales and market share. Plasma manufacturing uses blood plasma to make treatments and is known for being capital-heavy. CSL said the move could help it serve more global demand and hold its position in healthcare.

CSL (ASX:CSL) share price jumps 6% on plas…

Tasmea (ASX:TEA) adds Maxim Group, looks to boost FY27 EBITA

July 28, 2026, 11:14 PM EDT. Tasmea Limited (ASX:TEA) picked up Victorian electrical contractor Maxim Group in July 2026, adding about 600 staff and widening its reach in data centres, renewables, and infrastructure. The deal is tied to Tasmea’s push for growth through acquisitions across mining, energy, infrastructure, and industrial markets. Tasmea expects more than half of FY27 EBITA to come from electrical services, guiding for underlying EBITA of A$202 million to A$208 million that year. Reported revenue came in at roughly A$548 million in FY25, with net profit close to A$53 million. H1 FY26 revenue was around A$400 million, though profit was held back by acquisition costs. Investors are watching how well Tasmea integrates Maxim and manages earnings as the group expands.

Tasmea (ASX:TEA) Expands Industrial Servic…

Austral Resources puts new agglomeration drum to work at Mt Kelly copper plant

July 28, 2026, 11:13 PM EDT. Austral Resources Australia (ASX: AR1) has brought a new agglomeration drum online at its Mt Kelly copper plant in Queensland, aiming to improve heap leach copper recovery and keep operations efficient. The new drum steps in after the old unit retired-after handling 22 million tonnes of ore and over 155,000 tonnes of LME Grade A copper cathode. Austral said the update fits with its plan for steady copper production and long-term growth in north-west Queensland. The company is focusing on infrastructure before it runs into operational issues, with Mt Kelly central to the Western Operations and backing up sulphide processing at Rocklands in the East. COO Shane O’Connell said the spend shows backing for future copper output and shareholder value.

Austral Resources Upgrades Equipment at Mt…

Woodside (ASX: WDS) Jumps 28% on Q2 Revenue Growth

July 28, 2026, 11:12 PM EDT. Shares in Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) climbed after the company posted a 28% jump in Q2 2026 operating revenue, reaching US$4.2 billion from the previous quarter. The jump came as the average realised price rose 35% to US$85 per BOE, even though production fell 9%, hit by maintenance and cyclone disruptions. Completion of projects like Scarborough is on track, with Woodside tightening its full-year production outlook to a range of 174 to 185 million BOE. The stock is up about 30% this month in step with higher energy prices, but investors remain cautious about where prices go next.

Woodside (ASX:WDS) share price rises after…

Trump Administration Blocks Chinese Humanoid Robot Imports, Citing Security Threats

July 28, 2026, 10:59 PM EDT. The Trump administration has blocked imports of advanced humanoid and four-legged robots from China on national security grounds. The FCC added these robots and certain power inverters and solar panels to its Covered List of restricted items. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr said foreign technology could open the U.S. up to remote access, surveillance, and cyberattacks. The decision applies to new models, not products already in the country. China slammed the ban, saying the U.S. is politicising trade and warning of possible sanctions. The move is part of a bigger U.S. push to limit Chinese tech imports as tensions grow over trade, AI, and semiconductors.

Trump administration bans new Chinese huma…

ASX Biotech Quarterlies: Artrya, Saluda, Biome, InteliCare Post Mixed Updates

July 28, 2026, 10:58 PM EDT. Biotech stocks on the ASX reported another round of earnings, with some signs of progress. Artrya (ASX:AYA) brought in $60,000 from its US coronary diagnostic device and says it’s close to filing for FDA clearance on a new product, helped by a $74 million cash pile after raising funds. Saluda Medical (ASX:SLD) saw revenue climb 43% from a year ago to US$27 million for the quarter, though the stock is still trading 83% below its listing level. Biome Australia (ASX:BIO) posted 30% sales growth over the year and maintains a leading pharmacy share in probiotics. InteliCare ASX:ICR reported $1.8 million revenue, swung to positive cash flow, and added more healthcare clients. The latest quarterlies show a patchy but persistent push on commercialisation as ASX biotech stays active.

Health Check: Flow of biotech quarterlies …

Orbital Corporation lands MightyFly engine order for cargo flights

July 28, 2026, 10:57 PM EDT. Orbital Corporation (ASX: OEC) has picked up an order from US-based MightyFly for three of its heavy fuel engine propulsion systems. That puts Orbital’s engines into the autonomous cargo aircraft space, targeting middle-mile logistics. MightyFly will use two engines for flight testing and one for ground testing, deliveries due September 2026. The company’s self-flying cargo planes aim at commercial, government and defence users, with more than 400 flights logged and deals worth over US$270 million signed. The order comes after Orbital’s first flight work with American Aerospace Technologies Inc. (AATI) and another engine order for the AiRanger program, bringing that count to eight. Orbital wants to boost recurring revenue through a Power by the Hour service as these platforms leave testing and join real fleets.

Orbital Corporation Adds MightyFly as Auto…

Leeuwin Metals lifts Marda gold resource to 378,600 ounces

July 28, 2026, 10:56 PM EDT. Leeuwin Metals took Marda gold resources up to 378,600 ounces, a 22% jump in total ounces and a 53% boost for indicated, all in six months. The Evanston deposit sits at 165,500 ounces, including a 115,400-ounce higher grade chunk at 1.49g/t gold. Total Marda mineral resource now reports 11.4 million tonnes at 1.03g/t. That backs current work on project development and permit progress. New drilling found wide zones of shallower and moderate-depth higher grade gold after Leeuwin bought the asset from Ramelius Resources in 2025. The project sits inside granted mining leases in the Marda-Diemals Greenstone Belt in Western Australia. Leeuwin plans more drilling at Golden Orb, Deception Hill, and Mt King.

Leeuwin grows Marda to 378,600oz on fast-t…

High-Tech Metals, SSH Group lift Wagtail Gold JV resource after new drilling data

July 28, 2026, 10:44 PM EDT. High-Tech Metals (ASX: HTM) and SSH Group (ASX: SSH) have updated the mineral resource estimate for their Wagtail gold JV in Western Australia, using results from two years of drilling. The revised estimate has 105,000 tonnes grading 3.8 grams per tonne for 13,000 ounces, with 69,000 tonnes at 4.2 g/t for 9,000 ounces counted as indicated. The deposit is still open down plunge and along strike. SSH backs and manages technical work; High-Tech keeps ownership and a share of profits. The update supports work on scoping, mine planning, metallurgy, and permitting as Wagtail moves closer to possible mining.

High-Tech Metals and SSH Group Release Upd…

Flynn Gold (ASX:FG1) starts big geophysical study at Firetower

July 28, 2026, 10:42 PM EDT. Flynn Gold (ASX:FG1) has kicked off a new geophysical program at its Firetower site in northern Tasmania, looking for new gold, tungsten and copper targets. The company is using updated software to reprocess old exploration data. Resource Potentials will lead the study, applying modern methods to the legacy data set to help find new drill targets. Flynn Gold said the work fits its drive to grow its mineral pipeline with improved geophysical tools.

StockTake: Flynn Gold casts wide geophysic…

Defence Stocks Slid in Q2 2026 Even With Record Budgets

July 28, 2026, 10:40 PM EDT. Defence names tracked by the ARMR ETF dropped 9.6% in Q2 2026 as traders took profits and markets repriced spending, shrugging off record budgets from NATO and the U.S. NATO members now spend 4% of GDP on defence on average, moving toward the 5% goal, while the U.S. FY27 budget calls for a $1.5 trillion high. European defence stocks gave back ground after last year’s rally, with Germany’s Rheinmetall tumbling 31.3% after losing a €12 billion navy contract. Shares in autonomy, AI, and space players such as Rocket Lab and Safran held up better as military focus shifted. The sector still offers multi-year earnings visibility that some see as a geopolitical hedge.

Looking beneath the defence stock sell off

Quick Ways to Value ANZ Banking Group (ASX: ANZ) Shares

July 28, 2026, 10:29 PM EDT. ANZ Banking Group (ASX: ANZ) is trading near $37.62 as interest stays high in the big bank sector, which makes up roughly a third of the Australian market by cap. The PE ratio method puts ANZ at 17.5x FY24 EPS of $2.15, under the sector average of 19x. Investors also use the Dividend Discount Model (DDM), which looks at steady payouts and growth. Both methods help investors size up ANZ’s price against earnings and dividends, while sector averages give another point of reference.

2 easy ways to value the ANZ share price

Nexus Minerals wraps up Branches drill assays, confirms gold extensions at Wallbrook

July 28, 2026, 10:28 PM EDT. Nexus Minerals (ASX:NXM) has finished reporting assays for 37 RC holes drilled at its Branches prospect, part of Wallbrook. Results show more gold, including hits like 1m at 7.63 g/t and 3m at 4.25 g/t, with the resource update set for September. Branches runs along a mineralised corridor near Northern Star’s Carosue Dam. The new intercepts back up gold system continuity trending northwest and dipping east. Nexus expects to fold results from Branches, Clement, Payns and Crusader-Templar into a bigger Wallbrook resource, now at 304,000 ounces.

Nexus going for gold with Branches results…

Woodside Energy jumps after WA project gets go-ahead, Q2 revenue climbs

July 28, 2026, 10:27 PM EDT. Woodside Energy Group traded up 0.4% to $32.41, topping the ASX 200‘s 1.2% move. Shares are up 37% for the year, ahead of the ASX 200’s 3.9%. The stock moved higher when Western Australia gave State Significant Project status to Woodside’s $49 billion Browse to North West Shelf Project, clearing a path for approvals. It’s the biggest undeveloped offshore gas find in Australia, with the potential to add $141 billion to GDP and $56 billion in taxes long term. Q2 output fell 9% to 41.3 million barrels of oil equivalent, but the average realized price rose 35% to $85 per barrel, sending Q2 revenue up 28% to $4.185 billion. CEO Liz Westcott said asset reliability was strong and narrowed 2026 production guidance to 174-185 million barrels, supporting upbeat outlook.

Buying Woodside shares? Here's why it's a …

Patronus Resources flags new 3km gold zone at Pine Creek, sees wider potential

July 28, 2026, 10:26 PM EDT. Patronus Resources (ASX:PTN) named a new 3km target, Golden Wall, at its Pine Creek project in Northern Territory. Surface sampling there and at existing anomalies Hydra and Medusa returned gold grades up to 1.94g/t. Patronus says this builds its pipeline of drill targets and speeds up exploration, with two RC rigs and a diamond rig now working. Pine Creek spans 1,500 sq km and holds multiple large gold systems, according to the company, not just one deposit. Patronus says it’s pushing forward with its 2026 sampling program, with Burnside North now holding 10 priority targets. Managing Director John Ingram said Pine Creek is still largely under-explored and could offer more discoveries.

Patronus strengthens district-scale gold p…

Flynn Gold (ASX:FG1) Reviews Old Geophysics for New Drill Targets at Firetower

July 28, 2026, 10:25 PM EDT. Flynn Gold (ASX:FG1) hired Resource Potentials to reprocess old geophysical data at its Firetower project in northern Tasmania, as it looks for new gold, tungsten and copper targets. The work uses updated software to reinterpret earlier surveys. Flynn is betting modern methods can find drilling spots missed before. The company is one of a number using new tech on legacy data to speed up exploration. Investors are told these are early-stage targets and should get their own advice.

StockTake: Flynn Gold casts wide geophysic…

Xpedra (ASX:XPD) sees strong grades in first Springfield gold drilling

July 28, 2026, 10:13 PM EDT. Xpedra Resources (ASX:XPD) posted its first drill results from the Springfield gold project in New South Wales, turning up wide intervals of higher-grade gold. One hole hit 22 meters at 2.62 g/t gold from 120 meters, including a 5-meter run at 4.60 g/t. The company pointed to prior hits like 94 meters at 2.00 g/t from 80 meters. The program drilled 27 reverse circulation holes for 2,579 meters and mapped a shallow gold system open down dip and along 400 meters of strike. Four deep holes, 867 meters total, await results. Managing Director Scott Funston called Springfield a strong intrusion-hosted gold system and said he’s confident in Xpedra’s growth in the Lachlan Fold Belt.

Xpedra builds Springfield scale as maiden …

Red Mountain Mining (ASX:RMX) pushes ahead with US tungsten exploration at Pioneer

July 28, 2026, 10:12 PM EDT. Red Mountain Mining (ASX:RMX) is moving forward on tungsten exploration at its Pioneer project in the US, with a rock chip sampling program underway at the Greenstone and Lost Creek targets. The company said the work is meant to home in on zones for future drilling, with an eye toward tightening up resource estimates. Tungsten demand is up, making the push important for RMX as it looks to lock down its claims and push development. The update, released in collaboration with Stockhead, specified the information isn’t financial advice.

StockTake: Red Mountain Mining to sharpen …

Adherium (ASX: ADR) books fourth quarter in a row of record RPM revenue

July 28, 2026, 10:11 PM EDT. Adherium (ASX: ADR) delivered record remote patient monitoring (RPM) revenue for the fourth straight quarter, hitting $479,000 in Q2. Recurring revenue and commercial momentum picked up. Activated patient count climbed to 3,831, with a pipeline of 68,000 insurance-verified device-compatible patients. The Hailie Smartinhaler, paired with the CareCentra AI platform, showed better patient outcomes in an Intermountain Health study. John Perry, named chief commercial officer, brings two decades in value-based care. George Baran moved up to chair from non-executive director. Customer cash receipts jumped 79% to $408,000. The company is aiming for 10,000 RPM device shipments by 2026, focusing on building data assets and expanding its population health business.

Adherium Reports Fourth Straight Quarter o…

Australian Oil Co (ASX:AOK) brings California gas wells back online as prices jump

July 28, 2026, 10:10 PM EDT. Australian Oil Co (ASX:AOK) has brought its Rec Board-7 and Rec Board-8 gas wells in California back online after California Resources Corporation finished pipeline work. The company said the pipeline’s restart came as CityGate gas prices rose above US$3 per MMBtu, allowing operations to hit breakeven or go cash flow positive. AOK said it’s looking at restarting its VBC wells using current infrastructure to take advantage of better pricing. Managing Director Kane Marshall said turning cash flow positive marks a turnaround for the business. In Queensland, AOK said production restarts are advancing in the Surat Basin, and crude oil sales were made to IOR Energy’s Eromanga refinery. The company said these steps keep focus on cash flow and production at both its US and Australian assets.

Australian Oil Co restarts California gas …

Macquarie tips 45%+ upside for Viva Energy, IGO and Bannerman Energy

July 28, 2026, 9:55 PM EDT. Macquarie says Viva Energy (VEA), IGO Ltd (IGO), and Bannerman Energy (BMN) are undervalued and sees big upside. Viva Energy’s refining margin jumped 156.4%, first-half EBITDA is now seen at $770-$780 million, and Macquarie lifted its price target to $3.70 from $2.71. IGO’s Greenbushes lithium output came in 5% above forecasts, and its 80% EBITDA margin plus a possible dividend support a $10.50 price target, well above the $6.89 share price. Bannerman’s Etango uranium project in Namibia is 92% done, risk lowered by a CNNC JV, and the price target moves to $5 from $2.97. Macquarie expects more than 45% returns across the three names as operations and market conditions improve.

Macquarie tips these 3 ASX stocks to retur…

RBA’s Bullock tempers August hike bets; traders see patient stance

July 28, 2026, 9:49 PM EDT. RBA Governor Michele Bullock left the door open for a fourth hike but took a balanced line, with markets dropping odds for an August move from 30% down to 20%. Investors picked up on signs the Reserve Bank of Australia is in wait-and-see mode, looking at how earlier hikes play out. The RBA has already raised rates three times, with inflation still an issue. Attention now turns to consumer price index (CPI) numbers out soon, a key factor for the central bank and borrowers.

Live Updates: Cautious borrowers await con…

Sea Forest (ASX: SEA) Q4 Revenue Jumps 83% as SeaFeed Volumes Grow, Newcastle Centre Begins Operations

July 28, 2026, 9:47 PM EDT. Sea Forest (ASX: SEA) posted an 83% jump in Q4 SeaFeed revenue to $2.1 million, as supplementation volumes picked up and new deals landed with Avondale Ag and New Agriculture. Grain-fed cattle under contract moved to 131,000, up 11% from last quarter. Cash was at $12.6 million, after a $1.9 million R&D tax refund. The company opened its new 1,500 sqm mixing and distribution centre in Newcastle, lifting capacity to serve up to 300,000 cattle and aiming for lower logistics costs. Sea Forest is running more commercial trials in aquaculture and expects new revenue from carbon trading from FY27.

Sea Forest Lifts Quarterly Revenue 83% as …

Rio Tinto, CSL push ASX 200 past 9,000

July 28, 2026, 9:45 PM EDT. The ASX 200 added 0.9% as Rio Tinto and CSL led the gains. Rio posted its best half-year earnings result since 2020, lifting miners. CSL climbed after launching a new immunoglobulin trial, helping biotech. Those moves sent the index back above 9,000 as investors bought into some of Australia’s biggest names.

Rio Tinto And CSL Put Australia’s ASX 200 …

Unity Metals (ASX:UM1) Sits on AU$8.7M Cash, Burn Rate Down 62%

July 28, 2026, 9:43 PM EDT. Unity Metals (ASX:UM1) has AU$8.7 million in cash and no debt at December 2025. Annual cash burn sits at AU$2.4 million, so the stock has about 3.7 years of runway if spend holds. Cash burn dropped 62% from a year ago. There’s still no operating revenue. The company is early-stage and focused on growth. Current burn equals 8.2% of its AU$29 million market cap, so tapping more capital would be within reach. Unity’s cash reserves give it breathing room as it builds out operations.

Unity Metals (ASX:UM1) Is In A Strong Posi…

Iltani Resources (ASX: ILT) pushes forward at Orient silver-indium project with more RC drilling

July 28, 2026, 9:41 PM EDT. Iltani Resources (ASX: ILT) ramped up activity at its Orient silver-indium project in Northern Queensland, putting in 67 RC drill holes for 12,761 metres during the June quarter. The company is chasing higher resource certainty and aims to grow mineralisation as part of a 115-hole, 16,000m drill program still in progress. Early assays showed strong hits for silver and indium, including 42m at 52g/t silver and 19g/t indium. Orient holds a current mineral resource of 62.5 million tonnes at an 81.5g/t silver equivalent grade. Iltani was also given priority status for three new exploration permits near the Herberton tenure. Cash at quarter-end sat at $7.52 million, with Queensland government backing helping fund the work.

Iltani Resources Advances Orient Project G…

Mineral Resources (ASX: MIN) Jumps 5.9% After Quarterly Volumes Beat, Stock Up 87% in 12 Months

July 28, 2026, 9:39 PM EDT. Shares in Mineral Resources (ASX: MIN) climbed 5.9% to $56.25 at the open, putting the lithium and iron ore producer up nearly 87% over the year. The company moved past its FY 2026 guidance, posting record volumes in mining services, iron ore, and lithium. Iron ore shipments hit 19.7 million tonnes, beating its revised target, while costs stayed under guidance at $52 per wet metric tonne. Mineral Resources reported progress in the quarter, restarting Bald Hill and investing further at Mt Marion. Net debt dropped to $4.3 billion and liquidity rose to $2.4 billion. The S&P/ASX 200 index gained 1.2% today but MIN was well ahead as production and strategy drove the shares higher.

Up 87% in a year, why are Mineral Resource…

Oil swings on U.S.-Iran tensions; markets hold near highs

July 28, 2026, 9:26 PM EDT. Oil prices are volatile again as fighting heats up between the U.S. and Iran. Missile attacks near the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea have disrupted some flows. Both glut and shortage scenarios are on the table, analysts said, adding to market uncertainty. Oil slid more than 5% after a pause in clashes gave traders hope for talks. Still, U.S. stocks stay close to record levels. Geopolitical risks have not derailed equities so far, in line with past war-time trading. Investors are dealing with inflation in some sectors while other risks hang over the market. TheMarkets say there are no clear answers in this environment, with ‘nobody knows anything’ echoing in a market shaped by shifting events.

Nobody Knows Anything

Caspin Resources hits high-grade tin at Kelpie, finds 9.32% Sn in Errol's Zone

July 28, 2026, 9:25 PM EDT. Caspin Resources (ASX:CPN) said it drilled a 3m interval at 9.32% tin (Sn) in its Kelpie project in NSW, part of a larger 20m zone at 1.79% Sn from 185m down. The assays are from Errol’s Zone, a new area outside the current 3.94 million tonne Kelpie resource at 0.5% Sn. Managing Director Greg Miles said there’s upside for resource growth and flagged plans for possible underground mining. Caspin said Errol’s Zone, found through geophysical and geochemical work, has no surface mineralisation. Tin remains open down-plunge and more drilling is planned. The results build on recent exploration momentum at Kelpie and point to more resource upside.

Caspin Resources extends Kelpie with hits …

Healthcare Stocks on ASX Jump 13% in June as Entropy Trial Data and Lumos Sales Stand Out

July 28, 2026, 9:24 PM EDT. ASX-listed healthcare names climbed 13.31% in June, outpacing the broader market as investors responded to updates across the sector. Entropy Neurodynamics pushed its Phase II studies forward for psilocin candidate TRP-8803 in treatment-resistant binge eating disorder, posting a 50% remission rate as it looks ahead to more data. The company also shared positive Phase IIa results for its oral psilocybin TRP-8802 in IBS and added to its patent filings. Lumos Diagnostics said revenue was up 6% to US$13.2 million in FY26, with US sales of the FebriDx test up 875% after an FDA CLIA waiver helped drive demand for its viral vs bacterial infection screening. Over at TrivarX, preparations for a Phase I trial of its new Stabl-Im device moved ahead alongside a leadership change. Investors are watching how these updates feed through as earnings season gets underway against lingering economic headwinds.

ASX Quarterly Health Wrap: Clinical milest…

Foster Stockbroking keeps buy on Lumos Diagnostics (ASX:LDX) as FebriDx gains ground in US

July 28, 2026, 9:13 PM EDT. Foster Stockbroking has kept its buy recommendation on Lumos Diagnostics (ASX:LDX), pointing to stronger US uptake for its FebriDx test designed to tell apart bacterial and viral acute respiratory infections (ARIs). More than 170 sites in 24 states now order FebriDx, and urgent care chain WellStreet has rolled it out systemwide after a pilot. Foster puts potential annual revenue at US$14.4 million if FebriDx hits 251 sites, and this could rise to US$26.7 million at 481 sites. The product picked up a CLIA waiver from the FDA, letting lower-complexity clinics use it, including urgent care and GP offices. FebriDx is marketed to help cut down on unnecessary antibiotics-CDC says up to 28% of outpatient antibiotic scripts aren’t needed.

Foster Stockbroking bullish on Lumos as Fe…

Axel REE (ASX: AXL) pushes ahead at Woolrich rare earths, ISR tests hit 560 ppm TREO

July 28, 2026, 9:12 PM EDT. Axel REE (ASX: AXL) moved exploration forward at its Woolrich rare earths find in Brazil’s Caladão project in Q2. New metallurgical work showed effective in-situ recovery using mild magnesium sulphate, pulling out up to 560 ppm total rare earth oxides and 39% magnet rare earths. ISR results topped previous soluble TREO marks and kept impurity levels low. Axel said it’s planning a field ISR trial in Q4 to test things like permeability, reagent levels, and recovery. Latest drill hits also helped define a 128 million tonne resource with several strong intervals. The company says this progress could make it one of the first to do commercial ISR rare earth extraction in Minas Gerais.

Axel REE Moves Forward with Exploratory Pr…

ASX small caps jump; miners report wins, moves in exploration and production

July 28, 2026, 9:11 PM EDT. ASX small caps climbed, with H2G Limited and Red Sky Energy both surging 50%. Caspin Resources put out high-grade tin hits, and Leeuwin Metals lifted its gold resource by 41%. Andromeda Metals started up a pilot plant for alumina. Australian Oil Company pointed to stronger gas prices and a better outlook for operations. Anson Resources and Flynn Gold set out new work on uranium, vanadium, gold, tungsten, and copper targets. Hillgrove Resources brought in Commonwealth Bank to help boost copper production. Iron Bear Resources wrapped a positive PFS with development mapped out. Nexus Minerals reported more gold at Wallbrook to support its growing resource. Ongoing exploration and production efforts remain active across the ASX market.

Morning Feed: What’s cooking on the ASX?

Rio Tinto Jumps 5% After 43% Dividend Hike, Profit Beat

July 28, 2026, 9:10 PM EDT. Rio Tinto Ltd shares gained over 5% after the miner lifted its interim dividend by 43%. First-half net profit rose 47% to US$6.66 billion. CEO Simon Trott pointed to a 28% increase in underlying EBITDA and a 75% rise in free cash flow, helped by stronger metal prices and better productivity. Copper, aluminium, and lithium made up more than half of EBITDA. Copper output was up 3%, and Pilbara iron ore hit its highest level since 2018. Net debt dropped to US$14.1 billion; gearing is now 16%. RBC Capital Markets still rates the stock underperform, noting valuation worries. Rio will pay a US$2.11 per share interim dividend on 24 September.

Rio Tinto shares surge on dividend boost

Dateline Resources Halts ASX Trade While Awaiting US Court Call on Colosseum Project

July 28, 2026, 9:09 PM EDT. Dateline Resources Limited (ASX: DTR) stopped trading on the ASX on July 29, 2026, citing a US court motion for a preliminary injunction tied to its Colosseum Project in California. The pause is set to remain until the court gives its decision or until July 30, 2026, when trade could restart. Managing Director Stephen Baghdadi triggered the halt to meet disclosure rules during the case. The company, also listed on OTCQB in the US and FSE in Germany, called the US court outcome key for global holders. Dateline said it expects a quick court decision in that short window.

Dateline Resources Suspended from ASX Trad…

Evion's focus on local development seen in Roberto Andriambololona's move from Madagascar to Perth

July 28, 2026, 9:08 PM EDT. Roberto Andriambololona went from Madagascar to a senior technical post in Perth, a move the company says shows Evion Group’s (ASX:EVG) push for local development and upskilling. Scholarships and advanced study are part of his path, with a PhD expected in 2026. Evion says it’s backing community and workforce growth for the long haul. At its planned Maniry graphite project in southern Madagascar, Evion wants to replicate this work, aiming for 60,000 tonnes of graphite concentrate per year for 21 years and putting the project’s pre-tax NPV at US$263 million. Regulatory sign-off, support from locals, project economics and funding will decide the outcome.

Roberto’s journey highlights Evion’s commi…

Investing Steps Shift as You Move from Starting Out to Retirement

July 28, 2026, 8:55 PM EDT. Investment needs change as you move through life. Early on, it’s smart to build up some cash, pay off expensive debt, and get your super set up before you focus on investing. Beginners often go for simple, diversified ETF portfolios-like the DHHF Diversified All Growth ETF-covering Australian and global markets. Chipping in $50 a week can add up, with compounding possibly turning $91,000 invested into $526,000 by age 60, assuming ASX 200’s historical returns. While building wealth, other pressures hit-mortgages, kids, more bills. But regular investing beats fancy strategies. Tools like Betashares Direct’s Auto-invest make routine ETF top-ups easier. Over time, shifting your allocations to fit new needs makes sense, and should be reviewed as you go.

How to invest at every stage of life

Meteoric signs deal with POSCO on Brazil rare earths project

July 28, 2026, 8:54 PM EDT. Meteoric Resources Ltd (ASX: MEI) said it has struck a strategic partnership with POSCO International to help move its Caldeira rare earths project in Brazil forward. POSCO could take as much as 30% of Caldeira’s output for up to seven years and work on funding the project, subject to due diligence and further talks. Metallurgical testing showed Caldeira’s product can go into POSCO’s process with no extra refining. The deal is meant to boost the Brazil-Korea rare earth supply chain and fit into critical minerals plans for both groups. Meteoric is aiming for a Definitive Feasibility Study by 2026 and could make a final investment call in 2027. Managing Director Stuart Gale said the agreement matters for long-term offtake, funding, and tying Meteoric into POSCO’s supply chain.

Meteoric Resources signs strategic partner…

Northern Star up 0.5% as gold sales climb 14% in June quarter

July 28, 2026, 8:53 PM EDT. Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) shares edged 0.5% higher to $20.36, building on a 27.9% run in the past year. The company lifted gold sales by 14% for the quarter to 433,482 ounces. All-in sustaining costs came in at $2,651 an ounce. For the full year FY 2026, sales reached 1.543 million ounces and AISC was $2,698, both matching forecasts. Management guided FY 2026 earnings at $2.86 billion to $2.95 billion. Free cash flow for the quarter was $206 million. Cash and bullion stood at $1.235 billion after buying back $129 million in shares. KCGM Mill Expansion Project commissioning is in progress, targeting 27 million tonnes processing capacity each year. Suresh Vadnagra steps in as CEO October 5. Full FY 2027 outlook will be released August 20, along with audited FY 2026 numbers.

Northern Star shares in the green today as…

ASX Set to Open Higher as Oil Slumps on US-Iran Ceasefire Talk; Rio Tinto Lifts With Big H1 Earnings

July 28, 2026, 8:39 PM EDT. Australian stocks look set to start up on Wednesday after oil dropped sharply on hopes for a US-Iran ceasefire, easing some supply worries. The main index reacts to the shift in geopolitics as investors go through Rio Tinto Group’s strong interim results, with higher underlying earnings and revenue. The miner’s numbers are adding to market sentiment while commodity signals remain mixed. The ASX is tracking for gains as traders weigh easing risks and Rio’s latest earnings.

ASX Preview: Australian Shares to Rise as …

Lycopodium wins $22m Pilgangoora lithium expansion contract

July 28, 2026, 8:37 PM EDT. Lycopodium Ltd (ASX: LYC) landed a $22 million contract for detailed engineering on the Pilgangoora Operations plant expansion. The deal covers work on the P2000 project, which aims to take lithium spodumene concentrate output to 2 million tonnes a year. Lycopodium will start straight away, though the contract is subject to final PLS Group board approval. Managing Director Peter De Leo said the deal extends Lycopodium’s ties with the major hard rock lithium project. In the past 12 months, Lycopodium shares have jumped 55% compared to a 3% lift in the ASX All Ordinaries Index as the firm builds out mining projects at scale.

Lycopodium wins $22 million Pilgangoora ex…

Australia’s AI Data Centre Push Runs Into Power Supply, Political Hurdles

July 28, 2026, 8:33 PM EDT. Australia wants to make new AI data centres give back as much energy to the grid as they use, hoping to drive more renewables while power demand climbs. The plan leans on ‘firming’ tech like batteries and gas for grid stability if renewables drop off. But Queensland and the Northern Territory are pushing back, raising doubts about uniform national standards around renewables. There are about 160 data centres in the country now. McKinsey says AI-driven centres could account for 70% of power demand growth from 2025 to 2030. Officials say projects with clean energy, water-saving, and community benefits should come first, but the public is worried about energy bills and the environment. The effort tries to walk the line between growth, reliable power, and the fight over energy policy, including how nuclear fits in.

PM's data centre plan may hit roadblock as…

CSL (ASX: CSL) to begin Horizon 2 plasma process trials in 2027

July 28, 2026, 8:31 PM EDT. CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL) said mid-2027 is the start date for clinical trials of its Horizon 2 plasma manufacturing process at Broadmeadows. Horizon 2 targets higher immunoglobulin yields, pushing output and efficiency from the same amount of plasma. CSL is expanding the Kankakee, Illinois plant as it prepares for trials. The company is working with the U.S. FDA and European EMA for regulatory sign-off. CSL shares have dropped 56% over the past year, lagging the ASX 200’s 3% gain. Investors are watching for more detail on trial timing, approval, and how much capacity jumps.

CSL launches clinical trials for new plasm…

Santana Minerals (ASX: SMI) ends June with A$188M cash, land deal nod and FTA update

July 28, 2026, 8:29 PM EDT. Santana Minerals (ASX: SMI) finished the June quarter holding A$188 million in cash after a A$130 million placement and A$4.1 million raised from its Share Purchase Plan. The company got approval from the New Zealand Overseas Investment Office for a key land buy, cutting out royalties and boosting project value. The fast-track approval process for Bendigo-Ophir Gold is ongoing, with a decision due by December 16, 2026. Exploration pushed gold mineralisation past planned limits, pointing to more growth. Santana plans to restart the FTA process in August, with project financing and a final investment decision expected after that. CEO Damian Spring said the team executed well on approvals, project set-up and exploration in the quarter.

Santana Minerals provides June quarter upd…

Rio Tinto (ASX: RIO) half-year profit up 42%, boosts dividend, eyes copper and lithium

July 28, 2026, 8:27 PM EDT. Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO) posted a 42% jump in FY26 half-year profit to $6.7 billion. Underlying EBITDA climbed 28% to $14.8 billion as higher commodity prices and volumes helped results. Copper earnings rose 84%. Aluminium and lithium were up 38%. Iron ore was steady, down 1%. The miner raised its interim dividend 43% to US$2.11 and trimmed net debt 2% to $14 billion. Simandou in Africa made its first sale of high-grade iron ore. Rio Tinto guides for copper output of 800-870kt and iron ore sales of 343-366kt for 2026. While the market has already priced in much of the growth, the company’s copper and lithium push brings more exposure outside iron ore.

Rio Tinto (ASX:RIO) share price in focus o…

WA1 Resources (ASX: WA1) Hits More High-Grade Niobium at Luni Project

July 28, 2026, 8:25 PM EDT. WA1 Resources (ASX: WA1) said drilling at the Luni project in Western Australia returned more high-grade niobium pentoxide intercepts. Results from 18 diamond drill holes include a 21.4-metre section at 7.4% Nb2O5. WA1 is drilling to build geological confidence for early mining and to update its mineral resource estimate in 2026. The company said several holes cut over 20 metres above 2% Nb2O5, confirming continuity and outlining the deposit’s grade and geometry. WA1 wants to move part of its resource into the Measured category to back a pre-feasibility study targeting late 2026. Metallurgical testwork and development studies are ongoing as WA1 advances Luni, with strong results in both weathered and primary carbonatite zones.

WA1 Resources Delivers High-Grade Results …

Tax Hits Vary for Global Bond ETFs Despite Similar Hedges

July 28, 2026, 8:23 PM EDT. Global bond ETFs with currency hedges posted similar gross returns but saw very different tax results in fiscal 2026. Some hedged ETFs handed out yields from 6.8% to 9.4%, much higher than the roughly 4% from the bonds themselves. The gap comes from taxing hedge gains as income as soon as they’re realised, which can push up tax bills and eat into after-tax returns. Betashares’ WBND and US10 went with the TOFA tax regime, resulting in more stable payouts of 3.2% to 4.4% and possibly less tax drag. Tax treatment can make a big difference for global bond ETFs, as a bigger cash yield doesn’t always mean a better after-tax result.

Same hedge, different tax outcome: one key…

Nickel Industries (ASX: NIC) Q2 EBITDA Falls 11% to $120.5M; Sampala Nickel Resource Upgraded

July 28, 2026, 8:21 PM EDT. Nickel Industries Ltd (ASX: NIC) reported adjusted EBITDA of $120.5 million for the June 2026 quarter, down 11% from the previous quarter. The Hengjaya Mine turned in record results, with 58% EBITDA growth to $45.7 million. RKEF production slipped 8%, and adjusted EBITDA for the segment fell 30% to $60.3 million. The company rolled out a big resource upgrade at the Sampala project-1.095 billion tonnes at 1.24% nickel, valuing it above $1.3 billion. Nickel Industries picked up a $450 million unsecured loan and closed the quarter with $268 million cash on hand. The group is moving ahead on HPAL projects; first mixed hydroxide precipitate is out and nickel cathode is expected by mid-August. Management is calling this a transformational phase and expects expansion and regulation milestones to keep moving forward.

Nickel Industries posts Q2 earnings update…

Telix Pharmaceuticals ASX:TLX and Predictive Discovery ASX:PDI Draw Eyes for Growth, Insider Bets

July 28, 2026, 8:08 PM EDT. Investors are looking to stocks with fast growth and high insider ownership during a stretch of volatility tied to inflation, central banks, and higher yields. Predictive Discovery ASX:PDI, focused on gold in West Africa, is going after big reserves with production upside but also faces some execution risk. Telix Pharmaceuticals ASX:TLX is seeing strong sales in cancer care and keeps building out its pipeline, with revenue potentially hitting close to US$970 million by FY26. Both names mix growth with insider holdings and could stand out while markets stay shaky.

Telix Stock And 2 Australian Miners With H…

Liontown (ASX: LTR) Posts $137M Net Cash Flow, Moves Forward With Kathleen Valley Growth Plans

July 28, 2026, 8:07 PM EDT. Liontown Ltd (ASX: LTR) posted net cash flow of $137 million for the June quarter, lifting cash on hand to $561 million. The company output 103,111 dmt of spodumene concentrate, hitting its FY26 production and cost targets. Underground meters mined rose 35% from last quarter. That keeps Liontown on course for its 2.8 Mtpa ore mining goal by the end of FY27. Plant availability at Kathleen Valley hit 92%, with lithium recovery rates averaging 63% and recently hitting 70% on stable underground feed. Expansion work at Kathleen Valley is still on track, with a Final Investment Decision likely in Q1 FY27. The miner is keeping focus on optimisation, cost discipline, and growing its footprint as lithium markets steady.

Liontown books record cash flow as Kathlee…

Private Credit Turbulence Spotlights Diverging Flows as Institutions Step In Q2 2026

July 28, 2026, 8:06 PM EDT. Private credit got hit by volatility early in 2026 after a rapid sell-off in software stocks tied to AI worries-some calling it the “SaaSpocalypse.” Retail investors pulled money from software-heavy private credit funds on fears of wider losses, and a few funds restricted redemptions. But institutions moved in, pumping at least $16 billion into North American direct lending funds during Q2, the second-best quarter for fundraising in four years. Sources say exposures are mixed across funds, so some will fare better than others, and a broader meltdown looks unlikely. Most funds’ liquidity gates worked as designed, helping to steady things even with investor outflows.

Private credit’s noisy quarter explained: …

ASX Futures Point Higher, Up 0.9% as Traders Eye Inflation Data

July 28, 2026, 8:05 PM EDT. ASX futures are up 0.9% before the open, with a softer rate outlook giving the move some momentum. Traders set up ahead of inflation numbers due out soon, which could steer the policy call from the Reserve Bank of Australia. Sectors show some confidence as the market waits for that read on prices. With inflation in focus, the ASX looks set for gains even as global markets stay shaky.

The Morning Catch-Up: ASX set to climb as …

ASX scan: PLS, Elevra Lithium, Droneshield, Electro Optic Systems, Whitehaven Coal, Arafura Rare Earths move

July 28, 2026, 7:52 PM EDT. Today’s ASX scan is led by action in energy, mining and tech. PLS Group (PLS), Elevra Lithium (ELV), Droneshield (DRO), Electro Optic Systems (EOS), Whitehaven Coal (WHC) and Arafura Rare Earths (ARU) all show movement. Ampol (ALD), Amcor (AMC) and Guzman Y Gomez (GYG) also pop up. Investors are watching resource and tech plays as market sentiment moves. Bannerman Energy (BMN) and Silex Systems (SLX) make the scan as attention turns to energy and uranium explorers. Overall, activity is up and traders see opportunities across the board today.

ChartWatch ASX Scans: PLS Group, Elevra Li…

DroneShield (ASX: DRO) slumps after guidance miss, Bell Potter cuts target

July 28, 2026, 7:51 PM EDT. Shares of DroneShield Ltd (ASX: DRO) dropped 13% to $1.81 after the company said 1H26 revenue should rise 74% year over year to $125.8 million, but 2026 revenue guidance of $250-270 million came in 17-23% under consensus. Bell Potter cited lower margins on higher third-party hardware costs and FX drag. The broker said limited US contract wins for the 2026 FIFA World Cup show tough competition from names like Axon Enterprises. Bell Potter cut its price target to $2.50 from $4.80, but kept a Buy, pointing to 38% upside and possible strength in Europe’s counter-drone deals.

Leading broker on DroneShield shares and r…

Atlas Arteria (ASX: ALX) Posts Flat Toll Revenue in Q2 2026, Adds Debt Facility for Skyway Settlement

July 28, 2026, 7:50 PM EDT. Atlas Arteria (ASX: ALX) kept Q2 2026 toll revenues mostly flat, down 0.3% when stripping out FX moves. US and German assets saw improved traffic and tolls, but France fell due to higher fuel costs. The firm lined up a new A$150 million, three-year term loan, which lifts liquidity and will help cover a US$100 million Chicago Skyway settlement. CEO Hugh Wehby said the group’s mix of assets is helping balance the numbers, and called the loan a plus for strategic options. Shares are off 2% over 12 months, behind the ASX 200. Atlas is looking for ways to run operations better to counter fuel prices and keep traffic steady while it monitors roadworks and the wider economy.

Atlas Arteria Q2 2026 earnings: Stable tol…

Woodside Energy Q2 revenue jumps 28% as big projects stay on track

July 28, 2026, 7:49 PM EDT. Woodside Energy Group posted a 28% lift in Q2 revenue to US$4.185 billion after a 35% bump in average price to US$85 per barrel of oil equivalent. Production slipped 9% to 41.3 million barrels, with maintenance and cyclone recovery hurting volumes, but reliability still cleared 97%. Scarborough, Trion and Louisiana LNG are tracking on time and on budget-Scarborough is now 98% done and set for first LNG cargo by late 2026. Woodside took on operatorship in Gippsland Basin and boosted its Browse JV stake. The company held to its 2026 output guidance of 174-185 million barrels and US$4-4.5 billion in capex, keeping focus on growth despite choppy markets.

Woodside Energy Group Q2 2026: Revenue up …

Adam Myers Talks Private Markets Push, AI Shifts, and Where Pre-IPO Growth Is Going

July 28, 2026, 7:36 PM EDT. Adam Myers points to more value being built in private markets, with companies like SpaceX and Canva showing how growth is often locked in before IPOs. Retail investors still struggle to get in early, while big institutions keep taking the lead. Myers says artificial intelligence AI is speeding up those changes across sectors, arguing for broader exposure so investors don’t just chase one stock. He warns public market players risk arriving too late for big gains, and looks at listed vehicles as a way to access private companies more easily. The segment also touches on portfolio strategy, liquidity, and risk, with the shift from private to public markets standing out as a key trend for the next ten years.

Adam Myers on private markets, AI and inve…

ASX Dividend Picks: SSG and HM1 Deliver High Yields and Steady Payouts

July 28, 2026, 7:35 PM EDT. For investors looking for income, two ASX stocks stand out with high dividend yields and steady track records. Shaver Shop Group Ltd (ASX: SSG) posts a 10.5% grossed-up yield, runs more than 120 stores across Australia and New Zealand, keeps adding to its product range, and has raised its dividend every year since FY17. Hearts and Minds Investments Ltd (ASX: HM1) is showing a 9.9% grossed-up yield, with dividends up by 0.5 cents every half year. The listed investment company holds global shares, pays no fees, donates profits to medical research, and has put up a 13.8% annual return over three years. Both are options for investors wanting regular dividend income against a volatile market.

Get paid huge amounts of cash to own these…

Ramelius beats cost pressures in June quarter, books $138.3M cash flow on 53,466oz gold

July 28, 2026, 7:34 PM EDT. Ramelius Resources (ASX: RMS) delivered June quarter gold production of 53,466 ounces, holding all-in sustaining costs at A$1,973/oz-still below A$2,000 even as costs keep rising. Underlying free cash flow came in at A$138.3 million and operating cash flow at A$191.2 million. Full year gold output totalled 192,182 ounces with an AISC of A$1,983. Ramelius has finished 56% of its $140.7 million buyback and is paying a fully franked 3c interim dividend. Sale of the Edna May hub for A$300 million is set to close in September, making Ramelius a big Forrestania Resources shareholder. Ramelius pushed ahead with upgrades at Mt Magnet and spent A$33.9 million on exploration to add mine life. It’s targeting production above 500,000oz by FY30 as growth projects move forward.

Ramelius Resources posts June quarter resu…

Perpetual Ltd (ASX: PPT) Q4 FY26: AUM edges higher, progresses on $500m Bain Wealth sale

July 28, 2026, 7:33 PM EDT. Perpetual Ltd (ASX: PPT) posted a 2.3% lift in Asset Management AUM to $224.4 billion for Q4 FY26, and Corporate Trust Funds Under Administration rose 2.4% to $1.35 trillion. Wealth Management FUA added 5% to reach $22.1 billion. The Asset Management arm saw $12.3 billion in net outflows, but market moves helped balance that. Perpetual is moving forward with the sale of its Wealth business to Bain Capital, with $500 million up front and up to $100 million more flagged. Debt has dropped 15% since December 2025 and management says the company will be net debt free after closing. The 2H26 dividend is set to be unfranked. CEO Bernard Reilly pointed to growth momentum, digital work, and capital management as focus areas.

Perpetual lifts AUM, advances Wealth sale …

Wesfarmers ASX:WES draws investor attention as shares jump 9.2%

July 28, 2026, 7:26 PM EDT. Wesfarmers Ltd ASX:WES is up 9.2% since the start of 2025, catching the eye of investors. The Australian group runs businesses in retail and industrials, with names like Bunnings and Coles in the portfolio. Wesfarmers is often seen as a reliable blue-chip dividend payer, offering a 2.2% yield now with a five-year average of 3.4%. Investors tend to watch consumer discretionary shares when rates are low, but Wesfarmers managed 9.2% annual revenue growth even with high rates. Investors like clear-cut, familiar brands, but measuring returns is tricky in this sector. The S&P/ASX200 Consumer Discretionary Index posted a 2.98% annual return for five years, falling short of the ASX 200’s 3.89%.

why investors like consumer discretionary …

Wisr ASX:WZR Loss Widens, Analysts Still See Profit in 2027

July 28, 2026, 7:25 PM EDT. Wisr Limited (ASX:WZR) posted a AU$9.0 million loss over the last year, bigger than the AU$7.3 million loss the year before. Even so, analysts still think the lender will hit breakeven by 2027, after another loss likely in 2026. They project 81% annual growth is needed to get there. Debt is a key risk, with Wisr’s debt-to-equity ratio above 2x, far past the 40% usually seen as safe. Analyst optimism is sticking despite the losses and high leverage, with a turnaround seen in the next year or so. Investors looking at Wisr should take stock of the company’s management and past results before making decisions.

Wisr Limited's (ASX:WZR) Shift From Loss T…

Rio Tinto (RIO) lifts H1 2026 earnings on copper, lithium, boosts dividend

July 28, 2026, 7:24 PM EDT. Rio Tinto Ltd posted a 15% gain in revenue to US$31 billion as H1 2026 earnings rose with stronger copper, aluminium, and lithium output. Underlying EBITDA climbed 28% to US$14.8 billion. Net earnings to shareholders jumped 47% to US$6.7 billion. Free cash flow rose 75% to US$3.8 billion. The miner bumped its interim dividend 43% to US$3.4 billion, or 211 cents a share. Production growth pushed copper equivalent output up 3%. Its productivity program has delivered US$870 million in benefits, aiming for US$1.8 billion annualised by the end of 2026. Simandou and lithium projects are on track, and management kept full-year guidance unchanged. The company is sticking to a 40-60% capital return policy and said balance sheet remains strong.

Rio Tinto posts strong H1 2026 earnings, b…

Superannuation Needed for $80,000 Passive Income in Australia

July 28, 2026, 7:23 PM EDT. Australians can use superannuation for passive income and get a lower tax rate than regular earnings. To hit $80,000 a year, investors would need A$1.6 million in super with a 5% dividend yield, A$2 million if the yield is 4%, or about A$1.15 million at 7%. Many look to ASX-listed shares-citing Washington H. Soul Pattinson, Telstra, Wesfarmers-because of “franking credits” on dividends. Super’s tax breaks in retirement help keep more of that passive income, so it’s a key option for Australian investors and retirees chasing higher income streams.

How much is needed in superannuation to ta…

Talonx (ASX:TXR) hits more high-grade gold at Viking's Beaker 2, sets fresh targets

July 28, 2026, 7:22 PM EDT. Talonx Resources (ASX:TXR) says new RC drilling at the Beaker 2 prospect, part of its Viking project in Western Australia’s Norseman region, has turned up more high-grade gold. The latest resampling cut improved the previous results to 4 metres at 22.1g/t gold, including a 2-metre zone going 42.4g/t, in quartz veined, sheared granite. The main mineralised area now maps at about 400m by 300m and is still open both along strike and deeper. Next drilling will chase depth and step-outs below the strongest intercepts, with resource work on the table after that. Viking sits within the Albany-Fraser Province, same area as the Tropicana deposit. Talonx wants to grow its shallow oxide gold footprint at the project.

Talonx RC results demonstrates Viking’s go…

West African Resources delivers record Q2 gold production, boosts annual run-rate

July 28, 2026, 7:21 PM EDT. West African Resources Ltd reported record gold production of 125,179 ounces in Q2 2026, taking its annual run-rate past 500,000 ounces. The All-In Sustaining Cost was US$1,730 an ounce. Operating cash flow hit A$249 million. Gold sales for the quarter were 110,737 ounces at an average price of US$4,556 per ounce. Sanbrado mine output jumped 37% on higher grades and more underground mining, while Kiaka added 3%. Cash on hand stands at A$876 million. West African Resources is drilling with a US$20 million exploration budget, targeting over 100,000 metres. Guidance for the year stays at 430,000-490,000 ounces with AISC below US$1,900.

West African Resources posts record Q2 202…

Northern Star Resources ASX:NST Gains as June Qtr Gold Sales Impress, KCGM Update On Track

July 28, 2026, 7:20 PM EDT. Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) posted June quarter gold sales of 433,482 ounces at an AISC of A$2,651/oz (US$1,821). Stage 1 of the KCGM Mill Expansion is running on schedule, taking processing capacity to 27Mtpa. The group delivered A$206 million in underlying free cash flow and ended the quarter with A$443 million in net mine cash. Cash and bullion stood at A$1.24 billion after a A$129 million buyback. Suresh Vadnagra is set to take over as CEO, bringing global experience. Exploration spending stayed high at A$58 million, keeping up growth efforts at Hemi and elsewhere. Shares climbed 27% in the last year while the ASX 200 added 2.8%. Company will give out FY26 results and FY27 guidance on August 20.

Northern Star Resources share price on wat…

Australian Mines (ASX:AUZ) Fast-Tracks Flemington Study, Eyes Tripling Scandium Output

July 28, 2026, 7:19 PM EDT. Australian Mines (ASX:AUZ) says it is accelerating the Flemington scandium PFS, looking to boost output from 60 to 180 tonnes per year. The company cites stronger demand from fuel cell companies and data centers. Flemington sits next to Sunrise Energy Metals’ Syerston project in New South Wales and is one of the highest-grade primary scandium deposits worldwide. AUZ moves ahead after Bloom Energy boosted its SOFC capacity, putting more attention on scandium in new energy tech. Drilling to expand resources and metallurgical work is starting. An April scoping study had pointed to a 28-year mine life for Flemington, $860 million NPV at $3,000/kg scandium, and a 74% IRR. The PFS is being run to confirm scalable, Western supply as the market faces China’s dominance and shifting demand.

Australian Mines fast-tracks Flemington PF…

WAM Leaders (ASX: WLE) to pay 4.8c franked interim dividend

July 28, 2026, 7:18 PM EDT. WAM Leaders Ltd (ASX: WLE) said it will pay a fully franked interim dividend of 4.8 cents per share for the half-year to 30 June 2026. The dividend, franked at 30%, gives shareholders some tax benefits. The stock goes ex-dividend on 17 November 2026, with payment due on 30 November. The Dividend Reinvestment Plan (DRP) is offered at no discount, based on the volume-weighted average price for the four days after the ex-date. Shares in WAM Leaders are up 6% in the past year, beating the S&P/ASX 200 Index, which gained 3%. The company says it aims to keep regular income distributions and flexible DRP options for its investors.

WAM Leaders declares fully franked interim…

Vulcan Energy Resources finalises €2.2bn finance for Lionheart Project

July 28, 2026, 7:17 PM EDT. Vulcan Energy Resources (ASX: VUL) closed finance on its €2.2 billion (A$3.9 billion) Lionheart Project, moving into a key development stage. In the June 2026 quarter, the company drilled its sixth production well under budget and reported zero lost time injuries. Siemens AG landed major supply contracts. Cash at period end was €273.9 million. Work kicked off with a groundbreaking at the lithium chemicals plant in Frankfurt. Vulcan got a five-year royalty break on lithium from Rhineland-Palatinate, boosting project economics until 2030. CEO Cris Moreno pointed to strong lithium demand and said Vulcan is well positioned in European energy security and critical materials. The plan is to start lithium and renewable energy output on schedule and keep pushing on future phases.

Vulcan Energy Resources quarterly update: …

ASX stocks beat CBA on dividend growth and yield

July 28, 2026, 7:07 PM EDT. Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) faces slowing dividend growth, analysts see only a 1% dividend rise for FY27 and a 4.2% yield when franking credits are included. Some ASX alternatives look stronger for income seekers. Medibank Private Ltd (ASX: MPL) is offering a 5.5% grossed-up yield in FY26 and has forecast dividends climbing 12.2% by FY27, lifted by health sector tailwinds. Charter Hall Long WALE REIT (ASX: CLW), with $6 billion in assets leased mostly to large tenants like Telstra and Coles, gets a lift from built-in rent increases, which help with income stability. For long-term passive income, these picks may look more attractive than CBA’s slower dividend profile.

Forget CBA shares! Buy these ASX dividend …

Mineral Resources tops Q4 volumes, hits FY26 targets as net debt drops

July 28, 2026, 7:04 PM EDT. Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN) posted record mining and lithium volumes for Q4 FY26, beating its own forecasts across all divisions. Mining services production climbed 22% to 341 million tonnes. Iron ore shipments reached an all-time high at 29.5 million wet metric tonnes. Lithium SC6 sales totaled 559,000 dry metric tonnes, with Q4 prices jumping 15% from the prior quarter. The company cut net debt to $4.3 billion and lifted liquidity to $2.4 billion, with cash sitting at $1.6 billion. Capital spending for FY26 was $1.11 billion, matching guidance. MinRes wrapped up a $1.3 billion refinancing in April, bringing interest costs lower. Construction and expansions are underway at Onslow Iron and Mt Marion lithium. Shares have climbed close to 75% over the last year as the company delivered on targets and trimmed debt.

Mineral Resources Q4 FY26: Record volumes …

Vault Minerals (ASX: VAU) hits FY26 output targets, sets merger with Genesis, lifts FY27 guidance

July 28, 2026, 7:01 PM EDT. Vault Minerals Ltd (ASX: VAU) delivered a strong June quarter, meeting full-year gold production guidance at 336,540 ounces and selling 334,901 ounces at an average A$5,557/oz. Free cash flow for the quarter came in at A$219.2 million, with the year ending at A$841.6 million in cash and bullion and no debt. The company returned $74.3 million to shareholders through dividends and buybacks. Vault unveiled a planned merger with Genesis Minerals (ASX: GMD), aiming to form a top 20 global gold player, subject to approvals. Guidance for FY27 is set at 355,000-375,000 ounces, with AISC forecast at A$3,150-A$3,350/oz. Growth projects include the KoTH plant upgrade, now tracking ahead of schedule for September 2026, and ongoing work at Sugar Zone. Shares are up 103% in the past year, topping the ASX 200 index.

Vault Minerals posts June quarter results

ASX up at open, Apple touches $5 trillion; Oil slides

July 28, 2026, 6:44 PM EDT. Apple Inc. briefly crossed the $US5 trillion mark, hitting $342.89 before ending at $340.80. The ASX is set for a 0.9% jump after a 0.6% rise last session, with the Australian dollar trading near US69.77¢. The S&P 500 edged up 0.2%, the Dow Jones added 1%, but the Nasdaq gave up 0.2% as AI-chip stocks lagged, including Micron, down 8.9% on AI memory chip demand worries. Oil pulled back from two-month highs. US gains got support from earnings at Coca-Cola, Sherwin-Williams and Illinois Tool Works, even as some sectors took hits.

ASX set to rise, oil prices extend slide; …

ASIC: Banks Paid Out $55M on Mortgage Offset Errors, Borrowers Urged to Check Accounts

July 28, 2026, 6:29 PM EDT. The Australian Securities and Investment Commission (ASIC) said banks have handed back $55 million after mistakes in mortgage offset accounts. These are savings accounts tied to home loans that cut the interest people pay. ASIC looked at 200,000 loans. Every lender had problems running these accounts, and borrowers often paid too much interest. Some were overcharged more than $3,500 in a single month. Experts say borrowers should look at their mortgage offsets online or contact their bank to check the accounts are linked right and the right savings are used. ASIC says more payments could follow as more errors show up.

Mortgage offset account errors mean some A…

Pro Medicus Ltd (ASX: PME) drops 50% in a year, as strong growth figures show up

July 28, 2026, 6:28 PM EDT. Pro Medicus Ltd (ASX: PME) shares are down about 50% this year, but the healthcare software company’s numbers are still solid. The FY26 first half saw revenue rise 28.4% to A$124.8 million. Contract wins included a seven-year, A$90 million deal with Beth Israel Lahey Health. The company’s underlying operating margin improved to 72.6%. Profit before tax climbed 19.7% to A$90.7 million. Pro Medicus has no debt and reports A$221.8 million in cash and assets at end-December 2025, and says it will keep paying dividends.

A rare buying opportunity in 1 of Australi…

ASE Technology Holding Co Ltd ASX falls 7.2% to $33.93

July 28, 2026, 6:14 PM EDT. ASE Technology Holding Co Ltd ASX slid 7.2% to $33.93 on July 28, 2026. Shares have slumped 15.2% over the last year. The price still trades well above the GF value of $11.03, raising some overvaluation questions. Sector headwinds and cautious sentiment continue to weigh on the stock.

A Look at ASE Technology Holding Co Ltd (A…

Qantas (ASX: QAN) Dividend Yield Draws Analyst Buys, But Caution Lingers

July 28, 2026, 6:13 PM EDT. Qantas Airways Ltd (ASX: QAN) is set to deliver a 6.4% grossed-up dividend yield for FY27, with analysts tipping a 44.8 cents dividend per share for FY27, up from 39.6 cents in FY26. Recovery after COVID-19 is visible in better earnings and a stronger balance sheet, with higher travel demand and possible fare hikes helping to balance fuel costs. The stock’s low P/E ratio helps the yield look appealing. All 11 recent analyst ratings are buys, though some still say don’t jump in just for the dividend. Investors may want to consider the valuation and business outlook, as the sector remains volatile.

Is the Qantas share price a buy for its 6%…

eBay to Pay $56M in Blogger Harassment Settlement

July 28, 2026, 6:02 PM EDT. eBay and several former executives will pay $56 million to David and Ina Steiner, the bloggers behind EcommerceBytes, after a harassment campaign that included sending threats and trying to put a tracking device on their car. Seven ex-executives pleaded guilty between 2022 and 2024. eBay also paid a $3 million penalty under a deferred prosecution deal. Former CEO Devin Wenig is kicking in $1 million, which he says will go to a First Amendment rights group. Lawyers for the Steiners said the settlement speaks to corporate responsibility in cases where critics are targeted.

eBay agrees $56m settlement with bloggers …

James Hardie (ASX:JHX) and Reece (ASX:REH) post gains as key valuation levels shift

July 28, 2026, 6:01 PM EDT. James Hardie Industries (ASX:JHX) has risen 23.6% in 2025, with the stock trading at 2.59x price-to-sales, under its five-year average of 4.14x. JHX’s revenue is moving higher. Reece Ltd (ASX:REH) shares are up 60.6% from 52-week lows. The stock shows a 1.56% trailing dividend yield, above the five-year average of 1.06%. JHX focuses on fibre cement and gypsum products globally; REH leads Australia in plumbing and bathroom and is pushing into irrigation, pools, civils, and HVAC. These valuation figures may help inform decisions but aren’t the only factors to use.

JHX and Reece Ltd: 2 ASX shares to dig int…

AMP Ltd (ASX: AMP) Dividend Outlook: Stable 4c Payouts, Strong 5-Year Share Price Gains

July 28, 2026, 6:00 PM EDT. AMP Ltd (ASX: AMP) shares have more than doubled over the past five years, beating the ASX 200. For 2026, AMP shares are up 17% year-to-date, outpacing the index’s 2.5% gain. Analysts expect steady 4 cent dividends in FY26 and FY27, for a yield of about 1.9% before franking credits. Payout ratios stay below 50%, leaving some room for higher returns. Profits from China partners rose 24% in the first half of FY26, and net profit is previewed at $170-$180 million. The stock trades at 19 times projected FY26 earnings. There are six buy ratings, but some investors may prefer other ASX plays. Capital gains remain front and center for AMP, with dividends set to be a smaller part of returns through 2027.

Here's the dividend forecast out to 2027 f…

DroneShield (ASX: DRO) tumbles 13%, extending 40% year slump after margin forecast

July 28, 2026, 5:59 PM EDT. Shares in DroneShield Ltd (ASX: DRO) fell 13% to $1.81 after the company’s updated outlook, bringing its 12-month drop to 40%. Despite posting a 74% lift in H1 revenue to $125.8 million, investors moved on news that gross margin is set to fall from 65% to 60%. The company blamed sales mix, currency moves, and higher production costs. DroneShield is forecasting FY26 revenue of $250 million to $270 million, which would mean 15%-25% top-line growth. The company highlighted $23.2 million in new European defence deals and its advanced RfAI-3 system, with recurring revenue from software and services now at 11.3%. Shares still trade at about 70 times projected FY26 earnings, so it’s a long-term bet for anyone looking for margin stability and a shift toward software.

Down 40%, is the DroneShield share price g…

TechnologyOne (ASX: TNE) Up 214% in Five Years, Analysts Still Back Stock

July 28, 2026, 5:58 PM EDT. TechnologyOne Ltd (ASX: TNE) shares have jumped 214% over the last five years, beating the S&P/ASX 200’s 21% move in the same period. CMC Invest analysts put six buy and two hold calls on the name, with an average 12-month price target suggesting another 8.5% upside. The enterprise software group reports $500 million in ARR now, aiming to double that to $1 billion by FY30, with support from a blue-chip client list. TechnologyOne is seeing 15% organic growth, with big spends on R&D, as tech adoption stays strong. Shares trade at 49 times FY27 earnings, which keeps the stock in the top group of Australian tech, but near-term capital growth looks limited.

Up 214% in 5 years! Is this still a top Au…

ASX Gold Miners ETFs Try to Rebound After Recent Losses

July 28, 2026, 5:57 PM EDT. Gold miner ETFs trading on the ASX have dropped sharply in the past six months. The VanEck Gold Miners ETF (GDX) has lost more than 33%, while the Betashares Global Gold Miners ETF (MNRS) is off over 36%. Both funds are still up about 100% over two years after gains during the run-up in gold prices on central bank buying and conflicts. The recent drop has come as investors took profits and moved interest to sectors tied to AI, chips, and metals used for energy transition. Any bounce from here will need gold prices to climb again, likely needing more geopolitical risk, strong central bank interest, or a weaker dollar. Performance from the underlying companies-on cash flow and cost control-will play into whether these funds turn around.

Can these ASX ETFs recover after a brutal …

ASX 200 set to open higher; energy, gold and tech in focus

July 28, 2026, 5:42 PM EDT. The S&P/ASX 200 Index finished 0.6% higher on Tuesday and SPI futures point to another 0.8% rise at the open. Energy names like Beach Energy and Santos are under pressure with oil down more than 4% as US-Iran worries cool off. DroneShield caught a buy call at Bell Potter, though the broker lowered its price target on rising competition. Gold producers including Westgold and Northern Star are likely to slip, with gold futures off 1.2% before the Fed meeting. Mining services firm Develop Global still gets a buy rating, as analysts look to possible M&A upside even with cost headwinds in view.

5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Wednes…

VanEck Lists Three New Thematic ETFs on ASX Covering Chips, Rare Earths, Quantum

July 28, 2026, 5:41 PM EDT. VanEck rolled out three new ETFs on the Australian Securities Exchange ASX on August 6. The funds include the VanEck Global Semiconductor ETF (SMHG), which tracks companies tied to AI, cloud, and electrification. The Rare Earth and Strategic Metals ex China ETF (RESM) focuses on miners and refiners in sectors feeding demand for high tech and green gear. The VanEck Quantum ETF (QNTM) is aimed at the quantum computing industry. VanEck says these launches give Australian investors new ways to tap growth areas beyond the S&P/ASX 200 index.

VanEck launches three new ASX ETFs

Morgans Puts Buy Ratings on Regal Partners, Paladin Energy, Generation Development

July 28, 2026, 5:40 PM EDT. Morgans handed out buy ratings to three ASX names in funds management, uranium production, and wealth management, citing room for upside. Regal Partners Ltd (ASX: RPL) posted decent half-year numbers with earnings set to improve, even as shares have fallen lately. Morgans now sees the stock at $4.00, which is roughly 49% higher than where it trades. Paladin Energy Ltd (ASX: PDN) came in ahead of production and sales forecasts, with its Langer Heinrich uranium mine running at full tilt, but Morgans brought its target down to $12.50-a 37% lift from current prices. Generation Development Group Ltd (ASX: GDG) logged another jump in quarterly investment bond sales, backing its growth story. Morgans flagged performance and steady operations as key drivers on the ASX.

Why Morgans rates these ASX shares as buys…

Woolworths (ASX: WOW) Faces Possible 8% Drop as Dividend Outlook Holds Steady

July 28, 2026, 5:27 PM EDT. Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW) shares are up 27% for the past year, but analysts see the stock falling by about 8% over the next 12 months based on 11 ratings, with price targets from $32 to $39.50. The company is still projecting a $1.13 per share annual dividend for FY27, which works out to a 2.9% yield without franking credits or 4.1% including franking credits. That dividend could help cushion a weaker share price. The stock trades at 27 times expected FY27 earnings, which some analysts say looks pricey versus other options. For investors, the modest potential for price gains is matched by a steady dividend stream.

How much could the Woolworths share price …

ASX 200 Futures Point Up, Wall Street Rotates and Oil Drops

July 28, 2026, 5:26 PM EDT. ASX 200 futures climbed 0.8% before the open, setting the stage for a firm start Wednesday. On Wall Street, the Dow gained 1% while the S&P 500 added 0.2%; the Nasdaq slipped 0.2%. Investors pulled out of chip names and into healthcare and consumer staples, worried about payoffs from AI spending. Oil fell as hopes for a US-Iran deal improved, which pushed yields down and gave a lift to cyclicals. Apple briefly hit a $5 trillion valuation – the market liked its more careful approach to AI spend versus peers. SpaceX shares bounced almost 3% after a sharp drop, but a big share lockup is set to expire, threatening more swings. HSBC pointed to strong earnings and a firmer US economy as drivers for stocks.

Rise and Shine: Everything you need to kno…

Australian Oil Company (ASX:AOK) speeds up Surat Basin work

July 28, 2026, 5:25 PM EDT. Kane Marshall, managing director at Australian Oil Company (ASX:AOK), said the company is moving faster on development in the Surat Basin. In a chat with Tylah Tully, Marshall brought up new exploration ideas and plans to lift output, saying AOK is looking for fresh oil and gas plays. The company is zeroing in on these projects as it tries to build its footprint while demand rises. The update isn’t financial advice and investors should get their own guidance.

Long Shortz with Australian Oil Company: S…

Breakaway Research Keeps Spec Buy on Black Rock Mining as Mahenge Funding Nears

July 28, 2026, 5:24 PM EDT. Breakaway Research is sticking with its Speculative Buy call on Black Rock Mining (ASX:BKT), pointing to upside potential as the Mahenge graphite project in Tanzania waits on final equity funding. The company’s market cap sits around $26 million, but its post-tax NPV is close to $1 billion, leaving Breakaway to call shares undervalued. Mahenge has debt financing locked in, binding offtake deals, and a tie-up with POSCO out of South Korea, which is kicking in $40 million. About 85% of output is already pre-sold and the site will use cheap hydropower. Breakaway says the project is ready and a rerate could come if it lands the last $100 million equity needed to get construction started. Early works and $204 million of debt are already in place, so Breakaway sees room for a market rethink as the funding wraps up.

Breakaway flags rerating of Black Rock on …

Australian Banks Hand Out $55M Over Offset Account Errors

July 28, 2026, 5:12 PM EDT. Australian banks have shelled out more than $55 million to borrowers caught up in mortgage offset account mistakes, after the corporate watchdog found sloppy controls and manual errors left customers paying higher interest and taking longer to clear their loans. The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) checked eight big banks, and said five have started remediation and are still compensating clients. By March 2026, offset accounts held close to $350 billion, up 28% in two years as rates went up. ASIC chair Sarah Court said banks must stop hidden hits from broken offset accounts and tighten their controls.

Home owners warned about banks’ $55 millio…

Consumer Staples Lead ASX Gains, Discretionary Shares Edge Higher Too

July 28, 2026, 5:11 PM EDT. Consumer staples have gained nearly 15% so far this year on the ASX 200, with steady demand and strong earnings supporting the group. Consumer discretionary stocks, which took a hit earlier, showed a rebound this week as geopolitical worries eased and hopes rose for interest rate cuts in Australia. Those drivers helped both the traditionally defensive staples sector and the more cyclical discretionary names. Names to watch: Web Travel Group (ASX: WEB), which is up 17% on revenue guidance even with a 30% yearly drop; Guzman y Gomez (ASX: GYG), up 8% as a value play; and Elders Ltd (ASX: ELD), gaining 4% after a stronger outlook.

Consumer staples and discretionary shares …

CBA (ASX: CBA) Trades Well Above Sector On PE, But Can It Beat ASX 200 By 2026?

July 28, 2026, 5:10 PM EDT. Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) changes hands at a price-earnings ratio of 31.8 times, far above the banking sector average of 19, pointing to strong hopes from investors. A straight PE comparison drops CBA’s sector-adjusted value to A$108.77 a share, way off its current A$178.78. Models like the dividend discount model (DDM), accounting for dividends and risk, give another way to look at where CBA could trade by 2026. With CBA and the other big banks making up more than a third of S&P/ASX 200 market cap, they move the index. Investors are reminded no model can deliver a sure forecast, and using more than one approach for valuation makes sense.

Can CBA shares beat the ASX 200 (XJO) in 2…

WiseTech (ASX: WTC) drops hard after highs; possible entry if strategy works

July 28, 2026, 5:09 PM EDT. WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC) shares have plunged from a 52-week high at $120.84 to about $34.71, close to their low at $28.76. The CargoWise platform is still widely used in global logistics management. Growth depends on AI integration and adding new products, helped by the e2open acquisition. Risks for the stock include customer resistance to a shift in the commercial model, the threat of more AI competition, and governance questions around founder Richard White. With a forward P/E around 36.7 for FY26, but expected earnings growth over 50% in FY27-28, the P/E could drop to 15.5. That could offer long-term value if WiseTech delivers. Shares remain volatile and the stock could provide a rare entry for investors betting on execution.

Are WiseTech shares a once-in-a-decade bar…

EU deepfake label rules kick in, but critics question if AI Act goes far enough

July 28, 2026, 4:58 PM EDT. The EU from Sunday makes tech firms label deepfake content under its AI Act. The new rules mean AI-made images, audio and video that look real must show they’re synthetic, targeting firms like OpenAI and Anthropic. The law leaves out artistic, satire or fiction uses, but some worry it won’t stop abuse-especially after fake nude images of Taylor Swift and a hoax wartime video of Ukraine’s Zelenskyy. A voluntary EU code orders machine-readable and visible labels for professional AI output, though personal use is not included. Skeptics say enforcement and technical hurdles raise real doubts about stopping AI misinformation or manipulation.

The EU is forcing tech companies to label …

eBay settles harassment suit with $55.7 million payment

July 28, 2026, 4:57 PM EDT. eBay Inc agreed to pay $55.7 million to settle a lawsuit over harassment sent to critics of the company. The case centers on a couple who wrote critical posts about eBay on their blog and then got threatening deliveries, like a funeral wreath and live cockroaches. The settlement tackles claims of intimidation after negative comments about eBay. The deal ends allegations that eBay or its people organized the harassment campaign.

Ebay to pay $55.7mn to settle case over ha…

RBC Capital Markets Picks Four ASX Tech Names for AI Upside

July 28, 2026, 4:56 PM EDT. RBC Capital Markets names Technology One, Megaport, Wisetech, and NextDC as top picks for ASX tech investors, even with the sector still digesting the so-called SaaSpocalypse selloff. RBC is looking at firms with mission-critical workloads and direct AI exposure. Technology One gets a $33 target, with steady public sector contracts backing it. Megaport, which connects to AI-fueled network demand, is set at $25. Wisetech holds to a $64 price goal as investors wait for FY27 signals. NextDC leans on a big AI and cloud backlog, justifying a $4.5 billion capex plan through FY27. RBC says more reporting is needed before calling a true earnings shift for these stocks.

Check out these 4 ASX tech firms RBC Capit…

Sky Metals (ASX:SKY) loss widens, analysts target profit by 2028 on 66% growth

July 28, 2026, 4:55 PM EDT. Sky Metals (ASX:SKY) posted a full-year loss of AU$3.2 million, still running at a loss with no breakeven. Analysts see the company hitting breakeven in 2027 and possibly pulling in AU$22 million profit in 2028, which means average annual earnings growth of 66%. The company has no debt, rare for metals and mining, which helps cut repayment risk, but cash flow stays volatile. For investors, valuation and management depth matter as the company stays in high-growth and cash-burn mode.

When Can We Expect A Profit From Sky Metal…

NZ Healthtech Firms Lift ASX Profile as Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Leads Gains

July 28, 2026, 4:54 PM EDT. New Zealand’s healthtech sector is seeing strong growth, with more Kiwi firms making it to the ASX and Fisher & Paykel Healthcare out in front. Greg Shanahan, managing director at Technology Investment Network (TIN), said healthtech remains one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing tech segments. Neuren Pharmaceuticals, AFT Pharmaceuticals, and Aroa Biosurgery are among the names building momentum. Fisher & Paykel Healthcare, the country’s biggest healthcare company by market cap (~NZ$23bn), posted a 14% jump in revenue to NZ$2.31bn and a 24% boost in net profit for FY26. Dividends rose 22%. The sector is still driving exports and remains important for long-term economic growth in New Zealand.

These Kiwi healthcare innovators are makin…

Island Pharmaceuticals (ASX:ILA) set to start primate tests for Marburg, Ebola drugs after FDA clears Animal Rule path

July 28, 2026, 4:53 PM EDT. Island Pharmaceuticals (ASX:ILA) has lined up two primate trials of its antiviral Galidesivir for Marburg virus. The company got ‘Animal Rule’ status from the US FDA, which means it can use animal study data instead of human trials due to safety risks. Island is working with USAMRIIDS and Texas Biomedical Research Institute on dose escalation studies in 32 primates, targeting data in late 2024 or early 2027. The company sees the drug as a key US biodefense tool, with plans to prioritize 10,000 essential US personnel in a major outbreak. Other Animal Rule projects have landed biosecurity deals worth an average $467 million each.

Biocurious: Post Germageddon, Island Pharm…

FireFly Metals (ASX:FFM) says June quarter results at Green Bay copper-gold project back growth case

July 28, 2026, 4:40 PM EDT. FireFly Metals Ltd (ASX:FFM) said results from its Green Bay Copper-Gold Project in the June 2026 quarter support its development push. The company saw key exploration steps and solid copper and gold assay hits in the period. Management says this could boost Green Bay’s economic outlook, with copper demand rising for EVs and renewables. FireFly Metals is working toward a definitive feasibility study and chasing resource upgrades and more drill news. Traders are watching FFM as it looks to move up in the copper-gold sector.

FireFly Metals’ June quarter delivers enco…

ASX Blue Chips: Rio Tinto Moves Up, Scentre Group Nears 52-Week High

July 28, 2026, 4:39 PM EDT. Rio Tinto Ltd ASX:RIO is up 8.0% for 2025, riding strong numbers with a 2024 debt/equity of 23.9%, a five-year average dividend yield at 6.8%, and a 20.3% return on equity. RIO still trades off commodity prices, especially iron ore. Over at Scentre Group ASX:SCG, the Westfield operator is close to a 52-week high, holding a real estate portfolio topping $34 billion. For 2023, SCG showed a debt/equity of 87.3%, a 4.8% average yield since 2019, and a 1.0% ROE. Both names show mature business signs, but investors may want to look at more metrics before taking a position.

RIO shares: your next blue chip investment…

CSL ASX:CSL edges higher in July, analysts still wary

July 28, 2026, 4:38 PM EDT. CSL’s shares were up 3% to $119.52 on Tuesday and have climbed 4% for July, bouncing 30% off June lows. The stock is still off 30% for the year and trades 56% under last year’s level. July’s move is more about shifting sentiment than fresh news. Most analysts have moved CSL to ‘hold’, though average targets pencil in 10-17% upside over 12 months. Plasma is still the main growth line, but bigger gains in the stock may have to wait until after FY26 numbers land in August. Investors considering CSL ahead of month-end face a call between near-term swings and the longer-term story.

Should I buy CSL shares before the end of …

Nine ASX 300 Stocks Triple in FY26, with Sunrise Energy Metals and 4DMedical Leading

July 28, 2026, 4:22 PM EDT. Nine ASX 300 stocks posted returns of 200% or more in FY26, topping the list of gainers. Sunrise Energy Metals (ASX: SRL) jumped 2,040% as its scandium and nickel-cobalt projects got attention. 4DMedical (ASX: 4DX) was up 1,786% after its respiratory imaging tech got FDA approval. Big movers also included Minerals 260 (MI6), Weebit Nano (WBT), and Elevra Lithium (ELV), each up at least 300%, some over 500%. The group covers mining, healthcare, semis, and defence names. The broader ASX 300 index rose 2.84% in price and delivered a 6.16% total return, a little under the ASX 200’s 7% total return for FY26, according to S&P Global data.

9 ASX 300 shares that tripled in FY26

Analysts Lift Electro Optic Systems ASX:EOS 2026 Forecasts on Higher Revenue, Smaller Losses

July 28, 2026, 4:21 PM EDT. Analysts raised their 2026 estimates for Electro Optic Systems Holdings ASX:EOS, now calling for 149% revenue growth to AU$320 million compared to the prior AU$277 million view. Per-share losses are seen dropping 98% to AU$0.0065, a marked improvement from the earlier AU$0.02 per share loss. But the price target sticks at AU$14.14, with long-term valuation unchanged. EOS’s growth projection is above the sector’s 10% pace after a 6.9% decline in the past five years. The smaller loss forecast points to more analyst optimism on the stock.

Rainbows and Unicorns: Electro Optic Syste…

GSK Rolls Out Three-Year Cost Cuts, R&D Focus, and HQ Move

July 28, 2026, 4:12 PM EDT. GSK said it will start a three-year plan to cut costs and shift more spending to late-stage research and development (R&D). The company is also moving its research HQ closer to AstraZeneca’s base. CEO Luke Miels wouldn’t give details on possible job losses from the move. The plan is meant to focus more on GSK’s drug pipeline and keep a lid on costs in a tough pharma market.

GSK unveils 3-year cost-saving plan to fun…

Partisan divisions in Congress changed approach to covert ops from the 1950s to 1980s

July 28, 2026, 4:10 PM EDT. New research shows partisan conflict changed how Congress approached covert operations during the Cold War. In the 1950s lawmakers backed hawkish support for moves like the 1954 Guatemala coup against Jacobo Arbenz, often matching executive priorities. By the 1980s, after Vietnam and Watergate, party splits pushed Congress toward strong opposition and tighter oversight, with battles over Reagan’s support for Nicaragua’s Contras as one example. Congress moved from focusing on anti-Communism to stressing partisan ideology, shaping both how covert op plans were made and how Congress investigated them. The study points to the ties between domestic politics and foreign policy on U.S. covert action.

Partisan conflict pushed Congress from sup…

AlgoSec weighs London listing as possible IPO move

July 28, 2026, 4:08 PM EDT. AlgoSec, the US cybersecurity group, is looking at a possible initial public offering (IPO) in London, according to people close to the situation. A decision has not been made and talks are ongoing. Sources said the company is still reviewing its options. The potential offering would be part of its growth push. Some cybersecurity firms are now considering going public outside the US.

US-Based Cybersecurity Firm AlgoSec Is Sai…

Coles (ASX: COL), Wesfarmers (ASX: WES), Woolworths (ASX: WOW) shares move in line with ASX 200

July 28, 2026, 4:06 PM EDT. Coles Group, Wesfarmers and Woolworths have all lifted around 2% recently, tracking the S&P/ASX 200. The major supermarket stocks are known for steady demand as defensive picks during economic worries and inflation. Woolworths leads for the year, up 35%. Coles has gained about 11.5%, Wesfarmers 9%. Ord Minnett analysts keep a buy on Coles, with a $27 target-about 13% upside. Most analysts say hold or sell for Woolworths now, seeing it as fully priced. Morgan Stanley recommends selling Wesfarmers, pointing to an 11% downside from the $89 mark. These calls come as investors look for steady names in a defensive market.

Are Coles, Wesfarmers or Woolworths shares…

Labour MP Takes xAI to Court Over Grok Chatbot's Alleged Fake Abusive Content

July 28, 2026, 3:38 PM EDT. Labour MP Jess Asato has sued Elon Musk’s xAI, claiming its Grok chatbot created fake sexualised images and videos of her without consent and caused distress. The suit says Grok was trained with instructions that let it generate adult and offensive content without limits, and even made explicit material unprompted. Asato accuses xAI of data protection breaches and misuse of private information. Legal experts call this ‘chatbot-driven abuse’-where AI, not users, is blamed for harmful output. She is asking the court to step in to force better AI controls and stop more abuse. The lawsuit brings a high-profile legal test for AI responsibility as fears of AI-powered abusive content grow.

Labour MP suing Elon Musk’s xAI says chatb…

Vodafone (LSE: VOD) Gets New Look from Investors as UK Defensives Come Back in Focus

July 28, 2026, 3:37 PM EDT. Vodafone (LSE: VOD) is back on investors’ radar as large-cap defensives start to catch interest again in the UK. With policy noise and demand for clear earnings, telecom stocks like Vodafone offer steady cash flows during choppy trading. The company has a broad footprint in Europe and Africa and is in the middle of a big restructuring push-most notably, the planned Three UK merger-which is set to cut costs and strengthen its finances. Dividend cuts and heavy 5G costs have hit Vodafone before, but it’s still seen as a key defensive pick for those looking to limit risk.

Vodafone (LSE: VOD) Draws Fresh Investor I…

What a $600,000 Super Balance Pays in Passive Income

July 28, 2026, 3:36 PM EDT. A $600,000 super fund earns between $18,000 and $42,000 a year in passive income at yields from 3% to 7%. Top stocks like Telstra, National Australia Bank, and Westpac are around 4%. Getting close to $48,000 a year needs an 8% yield, which usually means riskier options like listed investment trusts and ETFs, for example, Metrics Master Income Trust, Betashares High Yield ETF, and Global X Covered Call ETF. Those numbers are cash payouts before tax or franking credits. Higher yields mean more risk, so investors need to weigh that when chasing income.

How much passive income could I earn from …

ASX Penny Stocks in Focus for July 2026: Fleetwood, Renascor Updates

July 28, 2026, 3:35 PM EDT. ASX 200 slipped as global conditions weighed, with traders turning to penny stocks looking for upside. Fleetwood Limited (ASX:FWD), market cap at A$201.97 million, is shifting focus to modular building, dropping its RV business and booking up to A$24 million in restructuring costs. Fleetwood has no debt, profit is rising, but return on equity stays low. Renascor Resources (ASX:RNU), market cap A$150.23 million, is pushing ahead with its Battery Anode Material Project. The company launched a purified graphite facility, supported by a A$5 million grant. Still pre-revenue and reporting negative earnings, Renascor is showing some momentum. Both are drawing investor attention in penny stocks while market nerves linger.

ASX Penny Stocks To Watch In July 2026

ASX growth plays with high insider ownership stand out as market holds near 8,820

July 28, 2026, 3:34 PM EDT. The ASX 200 traded close to 8,820 as global worries and tech sector weakness weighed. Australian growth names with high insider ownership are drawing attention for signs of stability. Wisr, Torque Metals, and Starpharma Holdings sit among the leaders, all showing big insider positions and strong earnings growth above 80%. HMC Capital (Insider Ownership: 14.1%) is aiming for 23.4% annual earnings growth, but return on equity is still low. IperionX, with 16.6% insider ownership, targets 61.7% revenue growth and just raised US$50 million after picking up new assets. These companies are seen as more insulated, with big insider stakes seen as a buffer during shaky markets.

ASX Growth Companies With High Insider Own…

ASX Dividend Stocks: Yields Up to 24.5% While Market Slips

July 28, 2026, 3:33 PM EDT. The ASX 200 is holding near 8,820 as equities slide on global worries. Investors looking for income are turning to dividend stocks. Among the names, Fiducian Group (ASX:FID) is paying a 5.9% yield, backed by decent earnings and cash flow. Helia Group (ASX:HLI) is showing a 24.5% yield, but with a payout ratio over 300%, which raises questions about how long it can keep this up. These stocks show what investors are weighing right now: yield versus dividend health in choppy markets.

3 ASX Dividend Stocks Yielding Up To 24.5%

Labour MP Jess Asato Takes xAI to Court Over Deepfake Images

July 28, 2026, 3:18 PM EDT. Jess Asato, a Labour MP, has filed suit against Elon Musk’s xAI, claiming the company created and circulated non-consensual deepfake images and videos of her that showed sexual assault. She called the images a gross violation of her dignity. The complaint says xAI misused private data and broke data rules, asking the court to order the removal of what images remain. Some of the explicit content is still online months after reports flagged it. xAI now bans making sexualised images of people, and new UK legislation outlaws the kind of deepfake material at issue, but Asato’s legal team argues xAI hasn’t stopped the violations. The lawsuit comes as legal pressure builds around synthetic media made by AI.

Grok images of MP Jess Asato are 'gross vi…

ABS Researcher Pushes Back on Myths About Australia's Non-Market Sector, Productivity

July 28, 2026, 3:03 PM EDT. Jason Annabel, a senior researcher at the Australian Bureau of Statistics, said there’s a lot of confusion about the ‘non-market sector’ in Australia-covering education, healthcare, and public administration. Annabel said it’s not just funded by government. Private operators account for 55-60% of healthcare, 30-35% of education, and less than 10% of public administration, with those shares sold at prices that matter to the market. He said calling the sector purely public can drive worries about the size of government and productivity falling. Annabel said charts that claim big growth in non-market hours worked shouldn’t be read as clear evidence of government overspending or outright productivity issues.

The debate about the 'non-market sector' i…

AlgoSec weighs London IPO with cybersecurity demand rising in Europe

July 28, 2026, 2:47 PM EDT. AlgoSec, the New Jersey cybersecurity group focused on AI-powered network security automation, is looking at going public on the London Stock Exchange. The company saw new business climb 37% for 2025 and says its gross dollar retention rate stays above 90%. AlgoSec, launched in 2004 and having raised $36 million so far, now employs 554 and runs a UK arm. The IPO plans are still open-timing and valuation aren’t out yet. Picking London over a U.S. listing puts a spotlight on Europe’s appetite for cybersecurity stocks. AlgoSec shares have shown up for accredited buyers on EquityZen in the past.

AlgoSec weighs London Stock Exchange IPO a…

AFI lags with high P/E, soft returns and muted outlook

July 28, 2026, 2:31 PM EDT. Australian Foundation Investment (ASX:AFI) reported net income up 2.9% for FY2026, but faces questions after posting a 28.7x P/E and a 0.9% total return, trailing the ASX 200’s 7.2% advance. Net profit margin held at 86% and the 4.25% fully franked dividend stayed in place, though dividend coverage by free cash flow ran thin, sparking talk on its sustainability. Active buybacks continue, but shares still trade under NTA, pointing to investor nerves after underperformance in healthcare and tech. The numbers muddy AFI’s conservative income stock reputation, leaving investors looking harder at valuation and future returns.

Australian Foundation Investment (ASX:AFI)…

Metal Powder Works (ASX:MPW) Targets 800-Tonne Output by 2028, Eyes US$1.7M Spend

July 28, 2026, 2:16 PM EDT. Metal Powder Works (ASX:MPW) is planning to lift DirectPowder output to 800 tonnes by 2028, up from 120 tonnes now, investing about US$1.7 million in stages. The company’s DirectPowder system cuts metal into powder at room temperature instead of melting, which it says can give better yield and protect material. Customer trials are pointing to demand of 1,500 tonnes a year, well above the target. For H1 FY26, MPW reported A$1.68 million in revenue and a A$3.71 million loss, with cash of A$15.31 million at end December 2025. Shares slumped 5.3% to A$1.80 as the market digests whether these trials can turn into ongoing orders.

Metal Powder Works (ASX:MPW) Targets 800-T…

Qantas Airbus A350-1000ULR Wraps 24-Hour Test Ahead of Project Sunrise Push

July 28, 2026, 2:15 PM EDT. Qantas has finished a 24-hour, 24-minute non-stop test flight on its modified Airbus A350-1000ULR, flying 23,075 km from Melbourne to Toulouse. The jet’s part of Project Sunrise, the group’s effort to link Sydney and London non-stop with commercial service by October 2027. The flight drew more than 3.6 million viewers on FlightRadar24, ranking as the platform’s second-most-followed flight ever. This A350-1000ULR uses an extra fuel tank for 20,000 litres of fuel, with room for 238 passengers. The plan is to slash the usual five-day Kangaroo Route to a single 19-21 hour run, aiming to shake up ultra-long-haul flying.

Marathon 24-hour Qantas flight tracked by …

Reece Group (ASX: REH) edges higher as S&P/ASX 200 climbs

July 28, 2026, 2:00 PM EDT. Reece Group Ltd (ASX: REH) finished at $16.28 on July 28, 2026, gaining 0.81% on the day. Shares still fell 2.69% over the week. The company, which is valued at $9.73 billion, supplies plumbing, heating, and water infrastructure products for the industrial sector. The S&P/ASX 200 index advanced 0.60% to 8,947.80. Reece sells through its trade distribution arm to plumbing and HVAC specialists, tracking construction and infrastructure cycles. A single positive session can follow market moves or sector shifts, but investors watch ongoing branch performance and demand as well.

Why Reece Group (ASX:REH) Is Back on the R…

Banks Hit Mortgage Customers With $55 Million in Extra Interest Over Offset Account Errors: ASIC

July 28, 2026, 1:59 PM EDT. The Australian Securities and Investment Commission (ASIC) said banks wrongly charged mortgage customers an extra $55 million when offset accounts failed to work as they should. ASIC looked at more than 200,000 loans at eight banks and found some savings accounts weren’t linked properly, so customers paid more interest than they should have. Banks were also slow to pay back affected borrowers in some cases. ASIC Chair Sarah Court said banks are “not getting the basics right” and pointed to the hidden impact, since many repayments did not change even when customers were overcharged. Offset accounts are meant to cut loan interest by linking savings to the mortgage. The Australian Banking Association said more than 99% of cases were handled correctly and banks paid compensation where needed. Consumer groups are calling on banks to deliver the interest savings offset accounts are supposed to provide.

Banks charged mortgage holders $55m in ext…

Virgin Atlantic Pulls 787-9 Fleet After Heathrow Engineer Death

July 28, 2026, 1:43 PM EDT. Virgin Atlantic has grounded its Boeing 787-9 fleet after engineer Georgie Buxton, 23, died at Heathrow Airport. Buxton was crushed during maintenance testing, spending nearly a month on life support before passing away. The airline is working with authorities and Boeing on an investigation. An inquest is under way, and the planes are still grounded. Virgin Atlantic said safety is the priority and offered condolences.

Virgin Atlantic Pulls Boeing 787 From Serv…

GSK Plans Job Cuts, £1.9bn Savings Push and New UK Drug Site

July 28, 2026, 1:12 PM EDT. GSK is cutting jobs as part of a £1.9bn savings program, with about £400m going into UK life sciences over three years. The company will move 1,000 scientists to a new site in Cambridge and shut down the Stevenage R&D hub by 2029. Labs in Ware are set for upgrades. CEO Luke Miels wants to speed up drug development, now aiming for 20 phase 3 trials. That’s twice what GSK was targeting before. The move puts GSK among the UK’s Cambridge, Oxford and London research cluster. AstraZeneca has also put money into the UK recently.

GSK to cut jobs amid £1.9bn cost-cutting p…

Virgin Atlantic engineer dies from Heathrow Dreamliner accident

July 28, 2026, 1:11 PM EDT. Virgin Atlantic engineer Georgie Buxton, 23, died on July 7 after being hurt while working on a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner at Heathrow Airport on June 11. Police and the Health and Safety Executive are investigating. Virgin Atlantic said it was deeply saddened and is supporting Buxton’s family and colleagues, calling safety its priority. Heathrow also gave condolences. The Dreamliner is a long-haul jet with capacity for up to 325 passengers. The inquest into Buxton’s death is set to open soon.

Virgin Atlantic plane engineer killed in a…

FTSE 100 up 0.8% as Unilever, GSK results boost sentiment; Asia chips slump

July 28, 2026, 12:41 PM EDT. The FTSE 100 added 0.8% to 10,871.02 on Tuesday, with earnings from Unilever, Croda, and GSK lifting the index as companies raised guidance and beat forecasts. Lower oil prices helped ease some inflation worries. But in Asia, chip names dragged down the Kospi, which lost 11%. Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix fell 13% and 15% each, as traders pointed to AI investment cuts and China competition. European markets were up a bit too. Barclays struggled after weak numbers, but better results and cheaper energy helped the FTSE hold gains even as the chip sell-off weighed sentiment.

Earnings tonic boosts FTSE 100 as oil fall…

Leverage Shares PLC Triggers Rebalance on 3x Long SanDisk ETP After 16.7% SNDK Drop

July 28, 2026, 12:27 PM EDT. Leverage Shares PLC called an intraday rebalance for its 3x Long SanDisk ETP when SanDisk (SNDK) shares dropped 16.7% to $1,064.75 on July 28, 2026, passing the -16.67% level set by its index. The adjustment hit between 10:20 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. EST, using a $1,075.00 average reference price. The rebalanced ETP security was set at $6.15775. This follows the Euronext 3x Long SanDisk Index guidelines for leveraged positions. Leverage Shares told ETP holders to check with their advisors. See the prospectus or contact Leverage Shares for more info.

REG – Leverage Shares PLC LS 3X LONG SANDI…

L&G Cyber Security ETF (LSE:ISPY) Jumps 37% in 2026, Outruns FTSE 100

July 28, 2026, 12:26 PM EDT. The Legal & General Cyber Security ETF (LSE:ISPY) is up 37% so far in 2026, while the FTSE 100 rose just 9%. The ETF tracks cybersecurity names like Palo Alto Networks, CrowdStrike, Fortinet, Cisco, and BlackBerry, as heavy demand for digital security and AI-linked cyber threats drive shares higher. Some holdings, including Qualys and Broadcom, lagged, but appetite for the fund is strong with the sector seen as critical for stopping new attacks. High valuations could be a headwind though, with several top stocks trading at rich earnings multiples.

Meet the Legal & General ETF crushing the …

SpaceX Shares Slide 50% Since IPO, Prospects Tied to Growth Bets

July 28, 2026, 12:25 PM EDT. Space Exploration Technologies (SpaceX) has lost over half its value within weeks of its NASDAQ launch, showing high volatility after the IPO. The stock trades on future promise, not profits-SpaceX has a $1.4 trillion market cap, far ahead of big UK companies like HSBC, but is still loss-making. With a price-to-sales ratio above 70, many call it overvalued. Some bulls are looking to Starlink, rockets and AI for upside. Analysts are cautious, saying full recovery could take time unless SpaceX’s business model delivers.

SpaceX stock has halved in weeks. Could it…

Legal & General Cyber Security ETF (LSE:ISPY) jumps 37% in 2026, beating FTSE 100

July 28, 2026, 12:09 PM EDT. The Legal & General Cyber Security ETF (LSE:ISPY) has climbed about 37% year to date in 2026, well ahead of the FTSE 100’s 9% gain. Key names like Palo Alto Networks (+69%), CrowdStrike (+59%), Fortinet (+90%), and BlackBerry (+110%) delivered big moves for the cybersecurity fund. The FTSE 100 has less focus on pure cyber stocks, which has helped widen the gap. Investors have turned bullish on cybersecurity, betting on more digital risk as AI advancements and new hacker tactics hit. Some stocks in the ETF lagged, but its mix gives investors a way to ride sector growth without picking single names.

Meet the Legal & General ETF crushing the …

Rolls-Royce (RR) Jumps 43% in Last 12 Months, Outpaces FTSE 100

July 28, 2026, 11:22 AM EDT. Rolls-Royce shares are up 43% over the past year, beating the FTSE 100’s 20% rise. £500 put in a year ago would be about £715 now, plus roughly £5 from dividends. The group still sees solid demand in civil aviation, defence, and power systems, even as geopolitical risks continue. Shares now change hands at about 48 times earnings-high by most yardsticks. The yield is just 0.7%, but there’s room for that to climb if profits improve. The valuation might give some investors pause after the rally.

Here’s what £500 invested in Rolls-Royce s…

Cobram Estate Olives (ASX:CBO) harvest slips, California Olive Ranch faces earn-out shortfall

July 28, 2026, 11:09 AM EDT. Cobram Estate Olives (ASX:CBO) said its 2026 Australian olive oil harvest dropped 20% to 11.3 million litres, blaming the normal biennial cycle and a 13.9% hit to oil content. The company is still folding in California Olive Ranch after buying it for US$173.5 million in March as it pushes into the U.S., but California Olive Ranch probably won’t hit its US$7.125 million EBITDA earn-out. Cobram is now seeking up to US$31.9 million off the price. First-half FY26 EBITDA slipped 34.4% to A$9.5 million, with sales at A$116.1 million. Cobram shares finished 1.54% lower at A$3.20 on 28 July 2026.

Cobram Estate Olives (ASX:CBO) Advances Ca…

ASIC says banks paid $55 million to mortgage offset customers after account errors

July 28, 2026, 11:08 AM EDT. Australian banks paid out more than $55 million to home loan customers after problems with mortgage offset accounts, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) said. Offsets are designed to cut interest costs by tying savings to mortgages, so less interest is charged. ASIC looked at eight top banks, which hold 70% of mortgages, and found problems across the board. Many customers kept paying the same amount each month, not realizing they were being charged higher interest. AMP, ANZ, CBA and Westpac were named. ASIC said borrowers should double-check how their offset accounts work, especially as rates keep climbing.

Home loan borrowers missing out on million…

DfT Lists Most Overcrowded Trains in England and Wales; Thameslink Tops Chart

July 28, 2026, 11:07 AM EDT. The Department for Transport said Thameslink’s morning Bedford to Three Bridges service was the most crowded train in England and Wales last autumn, hitting a load factor of 176% at London St Pancras. Overcrowding dipped a bit after a 4% bump in seating, affecting just 1.1% of peak-time passengers. Other packed routes on the list include West Midlands’ London Euston to Crewe and Transport for Wales’ Bridgend to Rhymney runs. South Western Railway and Thameslink showed up more than once in the top 10. Carriages and trains have been added as part of efforts to cut crowding at peak times.

The 10 most overcrowded train services in …

Citi: Primark, H&M Could Gain If Import Charges Hit Shein

July 28, 2026, 10:35 AM EDT. Primark owner Associated British Foods and H&M could pick up share as new import charges drive up costs for online rival Shein, Citi analysts said. The duties are set to push up Shein’s prices and squeeze product variety, making it harder for the fast-fashion e-tailer to compete. Citi said this may help traditional retailers hang on to customers and ease some of the pressure from online competition.

Shein loss offers positive read-across for…

Barclays Q2 Profit Beats Forecasts, Helped by Investment Bank Gains

July 28, 2026, 10:07 AM EDT. Barclays posted better-than-expected profit for the second quarter. Results got a lift from its investment bank, which took advantage of increased volatility and trading volumes. The bank said revenue and profit rose as traders responded to choppy markets.

Barclays profit surges as investment bank …

Aston Martin Lagonda Q2 2026: GF Value Sees 150% Upside Ahead of Results

July 28, 2026, 10:05 AM EDT. Aston Martin Lagonda Global Holdings PLC (LSE:AML) will post its Q2 2026 earnings on July 29. Consensus revenue is set at zero, but GF Value suggests shares could have 150% upside. Traders are watching sales numbers and profits as the luxury carmaker faces tough market conditions.

Earnings To Watch: Aston Martin Lagonda Gl…

ASX Dividend Stocks Hold Up as Uncertainty Weighs

July 28, 2026, 10:04 AM EDT. With inflation and policy worries hanging over markets, investors are chasing cash flow. The Dividend Powerhouses screener turns up several ASX names paying steady, growing yields above 5%. CSL, the biopharma major, trades at a A$55.7 billion market cap and offers a 3.5% yield plus active buybacks, though earnings remain complex and debt elevated. CSL’s mainstay plasma and vaccine units keep it in demand for critical therapies. QBE Insurance Group, at A$37.6 billion, runs a global book and posts a solid P/E, which draws income seekers. Both stocks show how bigger, well-covered dividends can anchor income portfolios as markets whipsaw.

ASX Dividend Stocks For Steady Income in U…

BT Group Shares Slide as UK Blocks Bharti Stake; 17.4% Return Seen by 2026

July 28, 2026, 9:48 AM EDT. BT Group shares fell close to 15% after the UK government stopped Indian billionaire Sunil Bharti from raising his stake, knocking out takeover premium and adding worries over fibre losses at Openreach. CEO Allison Kirkby is pushing cost cuts and streamlining, with net income up from £7.58bn in 2022 and set to hit £8.23bn by 2026. Fibre capex is peaking now, but should come down by £1bn in 2025. Analysts see shares going to 230p, a gain of 13.3% from 203p now, with a 4.3% dividend yield bringing the total return to 17.4% by 2026. A £9,999 stake could be worth £11,739 even as market and geopolitical risks stay in play.

Prediction: by August 2027 the BT share pr…

AstraZeneca (AZN) pipeline splits City views

July 28, 2026, 9:31 AM EDT. AstraZeneca PLC’s new drugs have City analysts split. Citibank lifted its price target to 17,800p, saying it’s confident about upcoming launches. But others remain cautious and point to doubts over trials and tough rivals. Analysts diverge sharply on AstraZeneca’s growth outlook.

AstraZeneca's drug pipeine is splitting op…

Micron NASDAQ:MU Could Gain 30% With AI Spending, Analysts Say

July 28, 2026, 9:15 AM EDT. Micron Technology NASDAQ:MU is up 690% over the last year but dropped 23% lately as traders worry about chip stock valuations. Micron is one of three players able to mass-produce high-bandwidth memory chips for AI, and reported a gross margin of 84.6% with revenues at $41.46 billion last quarter on heavy AI demand. Some analysts are calling for the stock to hit $1,200 in 12 months, up 30% if spending holds up. Supply discipline and recent earnings upgrades are seen as main drivers, but high expectations and market risks still hang over the name. Investors need to watch for volatility and geopolitics.

£3,846 invested in Micron stock now could …

ASX Slips After Monday Rally as Traders Eye Fed, Tech Updates

July 28, 2026, 9:00 AM EDT. The Australian sharemarket is set to open lower, with futures down 0.4% or 31 points after a solid session on Monday. Traders are watching for the Federal Reserve’s policy call and updates from major tech firms, both seen as key drivers for direction. Rate signals from the Fed and results out of the tech sector are in focus, with the mood turning cautious on the ASX as investors consider the risk.

The Morning Catch-Up: ASX set to pull back…

Games Workshop Falls 6% on Results, Dividend Cut Stings

July 28, 2026, 8:59 AM EDT. Games Workshop shares fell 6% after its full-year update. The FTSE 100 stock posted a 17% revenue jump to £659.7 million and pre-tax profit up 5% at £275.7 million, but licensing revenue slipped to £32.9 million from £52.5 million. The company also announced a lower 485p dividend. Shares trade on a forward P/E of 33, above the FTSE 100 average. Cost pressures tied to US tariffs and higher plastic prices remain in focus. The business is still turning out margins near 30-40%, but with a premium multiple and macro risks, the shares have lagged the index in 2024.

My favourite FTSE 100 stock just got cheap…

ASX 200 Edges Higher as Tech Stocks Slide in Asia, RBA Hints at Rate Pause

July 28, 2026, 8:49 AM EDT. The ASX 200 added 40 points, or 0.46%, to 8934 at 3.40pm AEST, heading for a five-day win out of six and nearly a six-week high. The broader index found some support while Asian tech names dropped, with the KOSPI in South Korea sliding more than 10.2% on fresh worries about tech weakness and renewed AI financing fears after reports of NVIDIA’s $250 billion OpenAI deal talks. CXMT, a Chinese memory chip company, jumped 465%, adding to concerns for Korea’s chipmakers. Local consumer shares lifted as traders saw less chance of RBA hikes, after Governor Michele Bullock pointed to a weaker job market and cooling demand. Odds on an August rate rise shrank to 5 basis points from 10 last week as inflation fears eased before the upcoming CPI data.

ASX 200 afternoon report: 28 July 2026

AUD/USD Holds Steady as Traders Wait for Australia Q2 CPI and RBA Decision

July 28, 2026, 8:46 AM EDT. The Australian dollar is stuck in a tight range against the U.S. dollar as traders look ahead to Wednesday’s Q2 CPI print, which comes ahead of the Reserve Bank of Australia’s August 11 meeting. RBA Governor Michele Bullock said the issue is not just whether inflation stays high, but if core inflation tops 3.8% to warrant a possible rate hike. Market consensus has trimmed mean inflation at 3.7% year-on-year, just under the 3.8% level. Bullock noted previous rate hikes have already curbed demand, implying the RBA could hold off unless inflation beats forecasts. Headline inflation is tipped to edge lower, keeping attention on core CPI. The data will help shape the RBA’s next move as inflation runs hot and AUD/USD remains jumpy.

Rangebound AUD/USD Awaits Australia CPI as…

Smurfit WestRock PLC set to report Q2 2026 results

July 28, 2026, 8:43 AM EDT. Smurfit WestRock PLC (LSE:SWR) is due to release second-quarter 2026 earnings on July 29. Wall Street is looking for $6.03 billion in revenue. Investors will be looking for updates on earnings and guidance as the packaging company faces changing market conditions and tracks progress on growth and efficiency.

Smurfit WestRock PLC (LSE:SWR) Q2 2026: Ev…

Diageo Plc Jumps 10.5% Since July; Investors Watch for Signs of Turnaround

July 28, 2026, 8:27 AM EDT. Diageo Plc shares are up about 10.5% since July 1, rising from 1,483p to 1,639p. It’s a rebound for the stock after five years of losses that totaled 55%. That long slide followed profit warnings tied to slowing Latin American sales and distributors holding too much stock when demand eased after the lockdowns. High inflation squeezed pricing power and put pressure on sales as buyers turned to cheaper drinks, stalling the premium spirits trend. While organic sales dropped 2.8% in H1 FY26, Diageo has shown recent strength, with management pointing to strategic price moves and steadier business in Europe, Africa, and Latin America. Investors are watching to see if the latest rally in the FTSE 100 spirits group holds or is just a short-term blip.

Here’s why the Diageo share price is up 10…

GSK to Shut Stevenage Site, Move 1,000 R&D Staff to Cambridge Hub

July 28, 2026, 7:57 AM EDT. GSK said it will close its Stevenage campus by 2029, shifting about 1,000 staff into a new £400 million research and development (R&D) center at Cambridge Biomedical Campus. The drugmaker is betting Cambridge’s life sciences network and ties to heavyweights like AstraZeneca will drive its R&D efforts. The new site will target oncology, respiratory, hepatology, vaccines, and HIV. GSK has run its Stevenage base for 50 years but wants deeper roots in the UK’s ‘life sciences Golden Triangle.’ Some work and staff will move to upgraded labs in Ware, Hertfordshire.

Pharma giant GSK quits Stevenage for Cambr…

FTSE 100 Gains as Unilever Jumps; AI Names Drag on Global Markets

July 28, 2026, 7:56 AM EDT. The FTSE 100 added 0.5% to 10,836, pushing near record levels, as Unilever rallied 6% after posting its strongest volume growth in more than ten years. The consumer goods giant pointed to a switch from price-driven growth to more demand from shoppers. Barclays slipped 5%-it raised dividends and beat profit estimates, but investors were mixed on the bank’s update. AI-linked stocks dropped worldwide, pulling down Asia: South Korea’s KOSPI and Japan’s Nikkei both sank as chipmakers traded lower amid fresh competition fears. Analysts say the FTSE 100’s hold near highs is down to earnings strength outside tech.

FTSE 100 shrugs off AI concerns as Unileve…

Games Workshop Shares Slide 5.5% Even as Sales, Profit Hit Records

July 28, 2026, 7:40 AM EDT. Games Workshop Group PLC dropped 5.5% to 19,100 pence Friday, giving up ground even after the company posted record yearly sales and profit. The Warhammer maker’s strong numbers didn’t stop the stock slide after fresh headlines tied to its Amazon partnership hit sentiment. The fall suggests investors are wary for now despite the financial update. Games Workshop is still a strong name in tabletop gaming, but some recent news appears to have rattled the market.

Games Workshop falls despite record year

Games Workshop (FTSE 100) Drops 6% as Strong Top Line Fails to Lift Stock

July 28, 2026, 7:25 AM EDT. Games Workshop shares fell 6% after the FTSE 100 company posted a 17% jump in revenue to £659.7 million and nearly 5% higher pre-tax profit. The Warhammer 40K maker saw licensing revenue drop to £32.9 million from £52.5 million, hit by US tariffs and pricier plastics. The company trimmed its dividend to 485p from last year’s 520p. Shares now sit at 33 times forecast earnings, much higher than the FTSE 100 average, leaving some investors questioning the valuation despite a strong balance sheet. The market is watching those numbers as the economic outlook stays mixed.

My favourite FTSE 100 stock just got cheap…