Last month, a large number of ASX 200 shares released their latest results and decided to share some of their profits with shareholders in the form of dividends.

Once a company declares its dividend, it names a date in which its shares will trade ex-dividend.

This is essentially when the rights to the dividend payment have been finalised. If you buy its shares on the ex-dividend date, you're too late to the party and the seller will be the one that receives the dividend even though you may be holding the shares on the dividend payment date.

In light of this, a share will more often than not fall in line with the amount of its dividend to reflect this.

A number of ASX 200 shares are going ex-dividend today are trading lower for this reason. Listed below are six such examples:

Blackmores Ltd (ASX: BKL)

The Blackmores share price is down 1.5% after trading ex-dividend for the company's 87 cents per share fully franked interim dividend. This will be paid to eligible shareholders on 28 March.

Brambles Limited (ASX: BXB)

The Brambles share price is dropped almost 1% to $13.19. It will be paying eligible shareholders a partially franked 17.7 cents per share interim dividend on 13 April.

Costa Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: CGC)

The Costa share price is down 1.5% this afternoon. Its shares have gone ex-dividend for its partially franked 5 cents per share interim dividend. This will be paid to shareholders on 6 April.

Smartgroup Corporation Ltd (ASX: SIQ)

The Smartgroup share price has sunk almost 7% after trading ex-dividend for the company's 29 cents per share fully franked final dividend. Eligible shareholders can look forward to receiving this dividend on 23 March.

Super Retail Limited (ASX: SUL)

The Super Retail share price is down almost 4%. This retailer will be paying its fully franked 34 cents per share interim dividend on 14 April.

Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS)

The Woodside share price has tumbled 7.5% after going ex-dividend for the energy giant's massive 211.3 cents per share fully franked final dividend. It will be paid to eligible shareholders in just under a month on 5 April.

The post 6 ASX 200 shares trading ex-dividend today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

With reporting season now over, we look over the results to identify some of the S&P/ASX 200 (ASX: XJO) shares that delivered the highest increases in interim dividends this year.

Income investors, take note. Some of these ASX 200 shares will pay boosted dividends because of higher commodity prices. Others are raising their dividends due to improvements in their businesses.

Either way, dividends have always been a great source of passive income. But they're even more important in today's economy, with interest rates rising. One Wall Street veteran says total returns on stock markets around the world are 'going to come much more from dividends' over the near term.

All of these companies below delivered a 25%-or-more boost to their interim dividends for FY23.

Is this the biggest booster among the ASX 200 shares?

It was always going to be hard for any ASX 200 share to beat the inevitable mammoth dividend increase delivered by Whitehaven Coal Ltd (ASX: WHC).

And Australia's biggest pure-play coal miner did not disappoint, lavishing a 300% boost to its interim dividend on investors thanks to a record half-year net profit after tax (NPAT) of $1.8 billion.

The ASX 200 mining share will pay 32 cents per share fully franked on 10 March.

The record profit was due to skyrocketing coal prices caused by the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the ensuing global energy crisis.

This also led to the Whitehaven share price screaming 261% higher in 2022, making it the best-performing share of the year.

Other companies splashing the cash

ASX financial share Hub24 Ltd (ASX: HUB) will pay an 87% higher interim dividend in FY23 due to an 87% boost to its profit in 1H FY23. Hub24 shares will pay 14 cents per share fully franked on 18 April.

QBE Insurance Group Ltd (ASX: QBE) revealed its full-year results this earnings season. QBE declared a fully franked final dividend of 30 cents per share, up 57% on the final dividend for FY21. The QBE dividend will be paid on 14 April.

IDP Education Ltd (ASX: IEL) reported a 62% NPAT boost in 1H FY23. The ASX 200 education provider announced a 55% increase in its interim dividend to 21 cents per share. The 25%-franked dividend will be paid on 31 March.

The Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT) dividend was doubled this earnings season. The ASX energy share will pay investors a fully franked interim dividend of 2 cents per share on 31 March.

Blackmores Ltd (ASX: BKL) reported a 17.3% NPAT bump to $24.4 million in 1H FY23, which resulted in a 38% increase to its dividend. The ASX 200 vitamin supplements company will pay 87 cents per share fully franked on 28 March.

Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) delivered its full-year results this earnings season. The company reported an underlying NPAT of US$5.23 billion, up 223% and a record for the ASX energy share.

Woodside boosted its final dividend by 37% to US$1.44 per share fully franked, payable on 5 April.

Finally, Super Retail Group Ltd (ASX: SUL) reported record first-half sales of $1.96 billion, up 15% year over year.

The ASX 200 retail share will pay a fully franked interim dividend of 34 cents per share, up 26%, on 14 April.

The post Passive income watch: Here are the ASX 200 shares that delivered some of the biggest dividend boosts this earnings season appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The Blackmores Ltd (ASX: BKL) share price tumbled 9% in early trading today after the supplements company released its 1H FY23 results.

Despite a 17% profit boost and a 38% higher dividend, investors appear to be displeased with the report.

The Blackmores share price opened at $83.50, down 1.4% on yesterday's close. The stock fell quickly to an intraday low of $77.05, down 9%. The shares are currently changing hands for $79.94, down 5.7%.

Let's take a look at what the company reported.

Blackmores share price dives 9% despite profit boost

Blackmores said the company had achieved a "solid first half result compared to [a] very strong prior corresponding period which included COVID-19 surge primarily in the International segment".

Here are the highlights of 1H FY23 for Blackmores:

• Revenue of $338 million, down 1.6% on the prior corresponding period (pcp) of 1H FY22
• Underlying gross margin declined from 53.9% to 53.3%, largely due to the impact of inflation
• Underlying net profit after tax (NPAT) of $24.4 million, up 17.3%
• Net sales down 1.6% and earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) down 5.5%. If the impact of COVID-19 in 1H FY22 is excluded, net sales are up 3% and EBIT is up 28.4%
• Underlying earnings per share (EPS) up 17% pcp to 125.4 cents
• Fully franked interim dividend of 87 cents per share, up 38% pcp and payable on 28 March

Blackmores dividend up 38%

The company said its balance sheet remains strong and this has enabled it to increase its payout ratio.

It has increased the payout range from 30% to 60% of statutory NPAT to 40% to 70%.

Statutory NPAT during 1H FY23 was $24.3 million, up 19.6% pcp.

What did management say?

CEO Alastair Symington said:

Blackmores delivered a solid result with continued revenue and earnings growth momentum in its Australia/New Zealand and China segments offset by its International segment which lapped a very strong prior corresponding period (pcp) that primarily included COVID-19 demand surge for immunity products.

Our teams have continued their disciplined focus on execution with improved customer service levels
and continued new product and brand innovation which drove market share and distribution gains across our core geographies.

What's next?

Symington said the near-term remained "somewhat uncertain" due to the impact of rising inflation and interest rates on consumer spending.

He said:

… we remain focused on executing our strategic and commercial plans and leveraging the Group's channel and geographic diversity.

Operational expenditure reduced by 6.3% while we remain on track to achieve our target of $55 million
annualised gross cost savings by the end of FY23 with $6 million in savings delivered during the first
half.

Today we have also outlined the next phase of cost savings targeting an initial $34-44 million in further
gross cost savings over FY24 – FY26.

Blackmores share price snapshot

The Blackmores share price is up 9.75% in the year to date compared to a 5.1% bump for the S&P/ASX All Ordinaries Index (ASX: XAO).

Over the past 12 months, Blackmores shares have fallen 13.3% compared to a rise of 0.3% for the All Ords Index.

The post Blackmores share price dives despite 38% dividend boost appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

These analysts are looking at the share market every day, so they typically have expertise on the businesses they're following and hopefully have chosen a good time to call that business a buy.

The Australian has reported on some of the latest calls.

Blackmores Ltd (ASX: BKL)

The broker Citi raised its target on the vitamins business to a buy. Citi's price target on the business is $84. A price target is where the broker sees the Blackmores share price trading in 12 months time.

With a price target of $84, that suggests that Blackmores doesn't have any upside from here.

The company is due to hand in its FY23 half-year result on 23 February 2023. The latest update we heard was in October 2022 when the company held its annual general meeting (AGM).

It said that it had seen a solid start to FY23, with supply chain stabilising, and service levels to customers improving to the best in the previous three years.

In Australia and New Zealand, it implemented price increases in the FY23 first quarter of between 5% to 6% to absorb cost inflation pressures. Blackmores' total market share value growth in ANZ is in line with the category.

In the international market, the ASX 200 share confirmed it's expecting revenue in the FY23 first half to be lower than the first half of FY22. It implemented price increases of 7% to 8% in the FY23 first quarter.

In the China region, Blackmores said it's seeing good momentum in premium fish oil and eye care segments, with the performance of new product launches being "encouraging". Blackmores implemented price increases across e-commerce platforms of between 6% to 8% in the FY23 first quarter.

Sims Ltd (ASX: SGM)

The broker UBS has significantly raised its price target on Sims to $16. That suggests a possible rise of close to 9% over the next year.

Sims describes itself as a global leader in metal recycling and providing "circular solutions for technology, and an emerging leader in renewable energy." The business has operations in a number of places including the UK, Europe, North America, Africa and the Asia Pacific region.

The latest update from Sims was at its annual general meeting (AGM). It said that soft market conditions have persisted through the first quarter of FY23, driven by lower volumes, tighter margins and "resiliently high" inflation.

The ASX 200 share said that lower scrap volumes resulting from significantly reduced economic activity, combined with increased competition for available infeed, has tightened trading margins in both percentage and dollar per tonne terms.

Sims' underlying earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) for the FY23 first half is forecast to be in the range of between $65 million to $75 million.

Johns Lyng Group Ltd (ASX: JLG)

The newspaper also reported that Citi has rated Johns Lyng as a buy, with a price target of $8.77. That suggests a possible rise of over 50% in the next 12 months.

This ASX 200 share is a building services business that provides building and restoration services across Australia and the US. The key role that it performs is that it rebuilds and restores properties and contents after damage from insured events such as impact, weather and fire events.

The Johns Lyng share price has dropped close to 40% since April 2022, giving it a lot of room to rebound.

While weather events are terrible for the communities it impacts, it gives the business more opportunity to provide its services. For example, at the AGM in November 2022, it said that Hurricane Ian in the US alone was an event that could cost more than US$60 billion.

The ASX 200 share has forecast that FY23 group revenue will be $1.03 billion with business as usual (BaU) work accounting for $930.4 million – a rise of 27.4% compared to FY22.

The earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) forecast is $105.3 million, representing a growth of 26% compared to FY22. The BaU EBITDA forecast is $93 million, a 43.3% increase over FY22.

The post 3 ASX 200 shares just upgraded by brokers, one with 50% upside appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) wobbled in and out of the green on Wednesday before ultimately closing 0.1% higher at 7,393.4 points.

Providing the biggest boost was the tech sector. The S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) outperformed, lifting 1.7% on Wednesday, driven by a 4.6% gain out of Block Inc (ASX: SQ2).

Weighing heaviest on the Aussie bourse, meanwhile, was the S&P/ASX 200 Real Estate Index (ASX: XRE), falling 0.9%.

In the doldrums alongside it was the S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ). The sector slumped 0.2% despite oil prices rising overnight.

The Brent crude oil price rose 1.7% to US$85.92 a barrel overnight while the US Nymex crude oil price gained 0.4% to US$80.18 a barrel amid better-than-expected growth data out of China.

So, with all that in mind, let's take a look at the 10 ASX 200 shares posting the index's biggest gains on Wednesday.

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

Leading the charge today was lithium favourite Sayona Mining Ltd (ASX: SYA). Its share price roared 8.9% higher to close at 24.5 cents.

Interestingly, there was no price-sensitive news from the company today. Though, its stock did tumble 2% on Tuesday.

These shares made today's biggest gains:

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

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

The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) ended the week on a high – a six-week high that is. The index lifted 0.66% today to close at 7,328.1 points. That marks a 3.07% week-on-week improvement.

Friday's gain came on the back of positive inflation data out of the United States. The nation's consumer price index slipped 0.1% in December, bringing its annual inflation rate down to 6.5%. That's good news for anyone hoping interest rates will ease.

Back home, the S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XJO) led the way on Friday. It rose 1.5% after oil prices lifted more than 1% overnight.

S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) shares also had a good day. The sector gained 1.4%.

Though, it wasn't such a good session for S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ) stocks, with the sector bringing up the rear, falling 0.4%.

So, with all that in mind, let's take a look at which ASX 200 shares posted the biggest gains on Friday.

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

Today's top-performing ASX 200 share was Blackmores Ltd (ASX: BKL). It lifted 6.2% to close at $81.27 despite the company's silence.

These shares made today's biggest gains:

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

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

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

Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT)

The Beach Energy share price is down 4% to $1.52. Investors have been selling Beach and other energy shares today after oil prices sank again overnight. Traders were selling down oil amid global economic growth concerns. The S&P/ASX 200 Energy index is down 2.1% this afternoon.

Blackmores Ltd (ASX: BKL)

The Blackmores share price is down 1.5% to $73.38. This is despite there being no news out of the health supplements company. However, it is worth noting that Citi recently warned about the company's prospects in FY 2023. It feels that price increases and the cost of living crisis could hit demand for its offering. Citi has a sell rating and $58.85 price target on its shares.

Costa Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: CGC)

The Costa Group share price is down 2% to $2.74. A number of agricultural shares are under pressure on Thursday. This may have been driven by some large investors rotating out of the sector into other areas of the market.

Weebit Nano Ltd (ASX: WBT)

The Weebit Nano share price is down 1% to $3.60. This may have been driven by profit taking after some strong gains in recent sessions. Investors have been buying this semiconductor company's shares after it provided a positive update on its demo chip.

The post Why Beach, Blackmores, Costa, and Weebit Nano shares are falling today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The first session of 2023 brought chaos to the market as the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) fell 1.31%. The index closed Tuesday at 6,946.2 points.

It was the banks that weighed heaviest on the ASX. The S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ) dropped 1.9% with the Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC) share price leading the downturn, falling 2.7%.

Also struggling were stocks in the S&P/ASX 200 Health Care Index (ASX: XHJ) and the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ). The sectors tumbled 1.8% and 1.7% respectively.

Interestingly, the S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) performed on par with the broader index despite New Hope Corporation Limited (ASX: NHC) posting today's biggest fall. The coal stock plummeted 8.5% on Tuesday despite the company's silence.

It wasn't all dire, however. The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) clambered its way into the green this afternoon, though it ultimately closed 0.1% lower.

But which ASX 200 share outperformed all others to post the strongest start to the new year? Keep reading to find out.

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

Today's top-performing stock on the index was gold explorer De Grey Mining Limited (ASX: DEG). It gained 5% to close today's session at $1.35.

Interestingly, there was no price-sensitive news released by the company today.

Today's biggest gains were made by these shares:

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

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

Will the market be able to build on this on Friday and end the week on a high? Here are five things to watch:

ASX 200 expected to sink

The Australian share market looks set to end the week in the red after a selloff on Wall Street. According to the latest SPI futures, the ASX 200 is expected to open 99 points or 1.4% lower this morning. In late trade in the United States, the Dow Jones is down 1.9%, the S&P 500 has sunk 2.4%, and the Nasdaq has crashed 3.1%. Interest rate hike concerns weighed on the market after some strong economic data.

Oil prices tumble

Energy producers Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT) and Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) could have a bad finish to the week after oil prices dropped overnight. According to Bloomberg, the WTI crude oil price is down 1.15% to US$77.38 a barrel and the Brent crude oil price is down 1.55% to US$80.84 a barrel. Recession fears weighed on global markets.

Blackmores rated neutral

The Blackmores Ltd (ASX: BKL) share price could be fully valued according to analysts at Goldman Sachs. This morning, the broker has retained its neutral rating with a trimmed $75.80 price target. It said: "Despite the opportunity for longer term growth remaining significant, we believe the current share price captures the risk/reward profile of this investment."

Gold price falls

Gold shares Newcrest Mining Ltd (ASX: NCM) and St Barbara Ltd (ASX: SBM) could have a poor finish to the week after the gold price fell overnight. According to CNBC, the spot gold price is down 1.7% to US$1,794.6 an ounce. Traders were selling gold after US economic data supported the US Federal Reserve's rate hike plans.

TPG shares upgraded

The TPG Telecom Ltd (ASX: TPG) share price could be a buy according to analysts at Morgans. After recent weakness, its analysts believe value has emerged and that investors should be taking advantage. It said: "We think the bad news is now priced in and see value at current levels. We upgrade TPG to an Add recommendation (from Hold)." Morgans has a $5.50 price target on TPG's shares.

The post 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Friday appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) traded in the red on Thursday. The Index closed 0.64% lower at 7,204.8 points.

It followed a similar fall on Wall Street after the US Federal Reserve hiked the nation's interest rates by 0.5%. The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) fell 0.4% on the back of the hike while the S&P 500 Index (SP: .INX) slipped 0.6% and the Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) dropped 0.8%.

Interestingly, however, it was miners that dragged on the Aussie bourse today. The S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) dropped 1.3% as lithium shares weighed heavily.

Retailers also suffered on Thursday, dragging the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) 1.2% lower.

Meanwhile, S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ) stocks led the market. The sector lifted 0.7%.

At the end of Thursday's session, two of the ASX 200's 11 sectors were in the green. But which stock took out today's top-performing trophy? Keep reading to find out.

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

Consumer staples stock Blackmores Ltd (ASX: BKL) led the index on Thursday, gaining 7.5% despite the company's silence.

Today's biggest gains were made by these shares:

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

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

The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) ended a disappointing week on a high today. It lifted 0.53% to close at 7,213.2 points on Friday. That marks a 1.21% week-on-week loss.

Leading today's gains was the S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ). It rose 1.9% on the back of commodity prices.

Gold futures lifted 0.2% overnight to US$1,801.50 an ounce and iron ore futures improved 2.2% to US$109.49 a tonne. Meanwhile, copper added 0.6% amid Goldman Sachs' bullishness.

The S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) also recovered 1% following a dire four-session-long losing streak that saw it dump 5.7%.

On the other side of the coin, the S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ) fell 0.8%, weighed down by the APA Group (ASX: APA) share price.

All in all, seven of the ASX 200's 11 sectors closed higher today. But which share outperformed all others? Keep reading to find out.

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

Today's top-performing share was Champion Iron Ltd (ASX: CIA). It gained 5.15% today.

Today's biggest gains were made by these shares:

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

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

The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) broke a four-day losing streak with a slight gain on Thursday. The index closed 0.19% higher at 7,135.7 points.

That was despite a poor performance from both the S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) and the S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ). The former posted a 1.2% fall while the latter slipped 2% amid lower oil prices.

The Brent crude oil price fell 1.1% to US$92.86 a barrel overnight while the US Nymex crude oil price slipped 1.5% to US$85.59 a barrel.

Fortunately, the sectors' falls were offset by gains elsewhere.

The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ) led the way, gaining 1.9%. The S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) also posted a solid rise, lifting 1.2%.

All in all, nine of the ASX 200's 11 sectors ended in the green today. But which stock outperformed all others? Keep reading to find out.

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

The top-performing stock on the iconic index today was Pendal Group Ltd (ASX: PDL). It soared 10.5% on news of its planned takeover by Perpetual Limited (ASX: PPT).

A court ruled that Perpetual could be liable for more than the $23 million 'break fee' if it were to walk away from the transaction.

Today's biggest gains were made by these shares:

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

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

On Wednesday, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) was on form again and pushed higher. The benchmark index rose 0.3% to 6,800.1 points.

Will the market be able to build on this on Thursday? Here are five things to watch:

ASX 200 expected to fall

The Australian share market looks set to fall on Thursday after a poor night on Wall Street. According to the latest SPI futures, the ASX 200 is expected to open the day 60 points or 0.9% lower this morning. In late trade in the United States, the Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) is down 0.4%, the S&P 500 Index (SP: .INX) has fallen 0.7%, and the Nasdaq Composite (NASDAQ: .IXIC) has dropped 1%.

Oil prices rebound

Energy shares, including Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT) and Santos Ltd (ASX: STO), could have a decent day after oil prices rebounded on Wednesday night. According to Bloomberg, the WTI crude oil price is up 2.8% to US$85.10 a barrel and the Brent crude oil price is up 2% to US$91.88 a barrel. Traders appear to believe that oil prices have been oversold.

Annual general meetings

A number of ASX 200 companies are holding their annual general meetings today and could provide trading updates. This includes health supplements company Blackmores Ltd (ASX: BKL), healthcare company Healius Ltd (ASX: HLS), struggling fund manager Magellan Financial Group Ltd (ASX: MFG), fellow fund manager Perpetual Limited (ASX: PPT), and toll road operator Transurban Group (ASX: TCL).

Woodside quarterly update

The Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) share price will be on watch when the company releases its quarterly update this morning. Investors will be keen to see if the energy giant is still on track to achieve its full-year production guidance of 145 – 153 Mmboe. Woodside's costs may also be in focus. During the first half, it reported a 47% increase in unit production costs to US$7.2 per boe due to the impact of maintenance and the Wheatstone shutdown.

Gold price tumbles

Gold miners Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN) and Regis Resources Limited (ASX: RRL) could have a difficult day after the gold price dropped overnight. According to CNBC, the spot gold price is down 1.3% to US$1,633.8 an ounce. The precious metal hit a three-week low after US treasury yield strengthened.

The post 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Thursday appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Will the market be able to build on this on Wednesday? Here are five things to watch:

ASX 200 expected to fall

The Australian share market looks set to give back yesterday's gains on Wednesday following a poor night of trade in the United States. According to the latest SPI futures, the ASX 200 is expected to open the day 63 points or 0.9% lower this morning. On Wall Street, the Dow Jones fell 0.95%, the S&P 500 dropped 1.1%, and the Nasdaq tumbled 1.1%. Rate hike concerns continue to weigh on sentiment.

Oil prices sink

Energy producers Beach Energy Ltd (ASX: BPT) and Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) could have a tough day after oil prices sank overnight. According to Bloomberg, the WTI crude oil price is down 5% to US$92.17 a barrel and the Brent crude oil price has fallen 5.4% to US$99.44 a barrel. Traders were selling oil amid concerns that rising inflation could impact fuel demand.

Harvey Norman results

The Harvey Norman Holdings Limited (ASX: HVN) share price will be on watch on Wednesday when the retail giant releases its full year results. According to a note out of Citi, its analysts are expecting the company to report a profit after tax of $614 million. This is broadly in line with the market consensus estimate of $614.6 million.

Gold price lower

Gold miners Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN) and Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) could have a poor day after the gold price traded lower overnight. According to CNBC, the spot gold price is down 0.8% to US$1,735.7 an ounce. This was driven by markets betting on the US Federal Reserve being aggressive with its rate hikes.

Shares going ex-dividend

A large number of ASX 200 shares are due to trade ex-dividend this morning and could drop into the red. This includes Bega Cheese Ltd (ASX: BGA), Blackmores Ltd (ASX: BKL), Iress Ltd (ASX: IRE), OZ Minerals Limited (ASX: OZL), Tabcorp Holdings Limited (ASX: TAH), Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES), and Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW). The latter will pay eligible shareholders its fully franked 53 cents per share final dividend on 27 September.

The post 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Wednesday appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

ASX reporting season may be drawing to a close, but the number of S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) shares going ex-dividend is ramping up.

Here are five ASX 200 shares turning ex-dividend tomorrow. This means that today will be the last day to lock in the latest dividend payments from these ASX 200 shares.

Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW)

Woolworths is the largest ASX 200 share going ex-dividend tomorrow. 

Last week, the supermarket giant declared a fully franked final dividend of 53 cents, marginally lower than the prior period.

The payment date has been set for 29 September, with a dividend reinvestment plan (DRP) also available to shareholders.

Woolies shares are currently flashing a trailing dividend yield of 2.5%, which grosses up to 3.6% including franking credits.

Endeavour Group Ltd (ASX: EDV)

Woolies spin-off Endeavour will also see its shares turn ex-dividend tomorrow.

The ASX 200 drinks and hotels business announced its FY22 results last week, bumping up its fully franked final dividend to 7.7 cents.

Investors on Endeavour's share registry by the closing bell today should see this dividend come through on 16 September. 

Endeavour shares currently come with a trailing dividend yield of 2.8%. Throw in franking credits and this yield lifts to 4.0%.

Tabcorp Holdings Limited (ASX: TAH)

Today will be the last day to snap up Tabcorp's final dividend before shares turn ex-dividend tomorrow.

The ASX 200 gambling business recently declared a fully franked final dividend of 6.5 cents, which will be paid on 23 September.

Alternatively, shareholders can choose to participate in the company's DRP, with a 2.5% discount on offer for those who take part.

Tabcorp shares are currently sporting a trailing dividend yield of 13.1%. However, after spinning off Lottery Corporation Ltd (ASX: TLC) in late May this year, Tabcorp's future dividends will likely be slashed.

Treasury Wine Estates Ltd (ASX: TWE)

Treasury Wine is another ASX 200 share going ex-dividend on Wednesday.

Today is the last day to lock in the company's fully franked final dividend of 16 cents.

This final dividend will be paid out on 30 September for shareholders not participating in the company's DRP.

Treasury Wine shares currently come with a trailing dividend yield of 2.4%. This grosses up to 3.4% with the benefit of franking credits.

Blackmores Ltd (ASX: BKL)

Last but not least, Blackmores shares will also be turning ex-dividend tomorrow.

The ASX 200 health supplements business recently released its FY22 results, cutting its fully franked final dividend by 24% to 32 cents.

Investors who own Blackmores shares by the time the market closes today should see this payment land in their accounts on 19 September.

A DRP is also available, with those participating receiving a 2.5% discount for their troubles.

With full-year dividends of 95 cents, this puts Blackmores shares on a trailing dividend yield of 1.4% or 2.0% grossed up.

The post 5 ASX 200 shares turning ex-dividend on Wednesday appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Three broker buy ratings that you might want to know more about are summarised below. Here's why brokers think these ASX shares are in the buy zone:

Blackmores Ltd (ASX: BKL)

According to a note out of Credit Suisse, its analysts have upgraded this health supplements company's shares to an outperform rating with a $90.00 price target. Although the broker was not overly impressed with Blackmores' full year results, it believes that its shares have fallen to an attractive level with more upside potential than downside risk. The Blackmores share price is trading at $71.09 today.

CSL Limited (ASX: CSL)

A note out of Macquarie reveals that its analysts have retained their outperform rating and lifted their price target on this biotherapeutics company's shares to $329.50. Macquarie was pleased with the company's guidance for FY 2023 and believes it is well-placed to build on this in FY 2024. Particularly given improving trading conditions and the new Rika plasma collection platform. The CSL share price is fetching $294.63 on Friday.

Pro Medicus Limited (ASX: PME)

Analysts at Morgans have retained their add rating and lifted their price target on this health imaging technology company's shares to $58.18. This follows the release of a strong result for FY 2022 earlier this week. Morgans was particularly pleased with the company's margins, which were well ahead of expectations. It feels this highlights the operating leverage of the business. The broker also notes that the company's outlook remains as strong as ever, highlighted by an increasing number of requests for tender proposals. The Pro Medicus share price is trading at $54.00 today.

The post Brokers name 3 ASX shares to buy today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The Blackmores Ltd (ASX: BKL) share price was on a slippery slope into the red on Thursday after the company released its full-year results.

At the close of trading today, the health supplements company's shares were down 10.07% to $73.19. Let's take a look at the results.

Double-digit revenue growth

Blackmores delivered its FY 2022 results for the 12 months ended 30 June 2022. Here are some of the key financial highlights:

• Group revenue increased 12.8% year on year to $649.5 million
• Group underlying earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) of $56.6 million, up 19%
• Group underlying net profit after tax (NPAT) of $31.1 million, up 22.6%
• Final dividend of 32 cents per share, fully franked, bringing the full year dividend to 95 cents per share, up 33.8%
• Net cash of $82.2 million

What happened in FY 2022?

Blackmores reported a solid financial performance, with growth recorded across all three brands for the first time in four years.

Continued focus on product innovation and investment led to an increased revenue base across the international, China, and Australia/New Zealand (ANZ) segments.

In particular, the international portfolio delivered EBIT growth of 43.9% to $29.8 million. This was underpinned by cost management, disciplined pricing and a shift to higher margin channels in all major markets.

Furthermore, the China segment registered an increase in EBIT by 11.2% to $16 million. Blackmores noted that gross margin was broadly flat with price initiatives and favourable mix offsetting higher input costs challenges.

And lastly, the ANZ division experienced a lift in EBIT by 7% to $43.1 million through gross margin improvement.

Overall, the group simplified its operations and strengthened the supply chain to address the significant disruption caused by COVID-19.

In addition, it implemented initiatives to enhance manufacturing productivity as input costs increased.

What did management say?

Blackmores CEO Alastair Symington had this to say about the results:

We are pleased to deliver a strong financial result during a period which continued to be impacted by the ongoing effects of COVID-19 and significant disruption to supply chains and increased input costs.

The resilience of our business model, together with the strength of our brands and distribution channels, have enabled the group to respond to these challenges to deliver top line growth along with further margin expansion.

What's the outlook for FY 2023?

Looking ahead to the new financial year, Blackmores advised it remained focused on executing its strategic and commercial plan.

This involves expanding its distribution footprint and investing in brand awareness across the international segment.

In the ANZ business, Blackmores will spend more on advertising and channel differentiation behind its three-brand strategy.

With China, management is trying to navigate consumer and trade headwinds caused by government-mandated COVID-19 lockdowns. However, there's hope that when this is lifted, e-commerce platforms will regain more traffic.

Blackmores share price snapshot

In 2022, the Blackmores share price has fallen 18.5%, but is relatively flat when viewed over the last 12 months.

In comparison, the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ) sector is up 3.6% for the current calendar year.

Blackmores commands a market capitalisation of approximately $1.42 billion.

The post Blackmores share price dives 10% despite revenue boost appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Four ASX shares that are falling more than most today are listed below. Here's why they are dropping:

Blackmores Ltd (ASX: BKL)

The Blackmores share price is down 9% to $74.01 after the release of the health supplements company's full year results. Blackmores reported a 12.8% increase in revenue to $649.5 million and an underlying net profit after tax up 22.6% to $31.1 million. Investors appear to have been expecting stronger growth.

Codan Limited (ASX: CDA)

The Codan share price is down 10% to $7.91. This morning this metal detector focused technology company released its full year results and reported a 3% increase in underlying net profit after tax to $100.5 million. While this was a record profit for Codan, it represents a sharp slowdown on its first half profit growth of 21%.

Lake Resources N.L. (ASX: LKE)

The Lake share price is down 6% to $1.19. This is despite there being no news out of the lithium developer today. However, it is worth noting that a number of lithium shares are sliding on Thursday. This may be due to renewed concerns over the prospect of a global recession, which could impact demand for electric vehicles and therefore lithium.

Xero Limited (ASX: XRO)

The Xero share price is down over 7% to $90.40. This follows the release of the cloud accounting software company's annual general meeting update. Analysts at Macquarie note that Xero's update revealed revenue growth largely in line with expectations. However, it was slightly concerned with the company's customer subscriptions in the key UK market.

The post Why Blackmores, Codan, Lake Resources, and Xero shares are falling today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) closed up a robust 0.77% on Friday at 6,578.7 points.

In 2022, the index has dropped by around 13%, presenting ASX investors with potential new opportunities.

Top broker Goldman Sachs says new value is emerging. In a new note, the broker names its best ASX 200 picks as the market correction continues.

ASX 200 P/E ratio now 15% below 20-year average

The broker says the ASX 200 is trading at a 12.2x forward price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio, according to reporting in the Australian Financial Review (AFR).

Goldman Sachs analysts Matthew Ross, Bill Zu, and Tony Wu say that's 15% below the 20-year average.

According to the note:

From a valuation perspective, our global strategists believe that market pricing is more consistent with a mild recession than an average or deep recession, a view we share in the context of the Australian market.

While we expect multiples on most 'growth' stocks to continue to unwind, a growing number of these names have now de-rated so significantly that they have fallen out of our "High P/E" screen and now trade at significant discounts to their five-year averages.

So, which ASX 200 shares does Goldman like?

Goldman's picks of the ASX 200 are A2 Milk Company Ltd (ASX: A2M), Aristocrat Leisure Limited (ASX: ALL), ARB Corporation Limited (ASX: ARB), Blackmores Limited (ASX: BKL), Breville Group Ltd (ASX: BRG), Domain Holdings Australia Ltd (ASX: DHG), EML Payments Ltd (ASX: EML), Pinnacle Investment Management Group Ltd (ASX: PNI), and Reece Ltd (ASX: REH).

Goldman notes that the impact of higher interest rates and slowing economic growth are yet to feed into consensus earnings revisions.

The broker said investors should keep in mind that while long-duration growth assets have de-rated, they remain expensive relative to the current level of interest rates.

Goldman says commodity stocks are trading well below all prior valuation troughs, and they comprise a uniquely large component of the ASX 200.

It also said ASX shares offer slightly less value than bonds compared to before the sell-off.

The post 9 ASX 200 shares now trading at 'significant discounts': broker appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Today has brought yet another punch for S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) shares, and these quality stocks haven't been immune to the market's pain.

The ASX 200 is down 0.08% right now, leaving it 9.5% lower than it was at the end of May. It has also tumbled 14% since the start of 2022.

But that might have created an opportune entry point for some high-quality ASX 200 shares. Here are three that hit their lowest price in more than a year on Wednesday.

3 quality ASX 200 shares trading at 12-month lows

Washington H Soul Pattinson and Co Ltd (ASX: SOL)

ASX 200 favourite Soul Patts has seen its share price hit a new 52-week low of $22.52 today despite no word from the investment house. That leaves it around 27% lower than it was at the start of the year.

The last time the market heard news from the nearly 120-year-old company was back in March when it announced its adjusted half-year profits had leapt 281%.

Blackmores Limited (ASX: BKL)

Another quality ASX 200 share slipping to a new 52-week low today is Blackmores. It reached a low of $65.00 in intraday trade.

Once again, the market hasn't heard news from the company since it released strong earnings for the first half. Though, it likely disappointed some by deciding not to provide guidance for the second half.

Today's slip might be due to broker Morgans' decision to lower its price target for the stock to $70.50.

The Blackmores share price has fallen 28% since the start of 2022.

Megaport Ltd (ASX: MP1)

Finally, ASX 200 tech share Megaport reached a new 52-week low of $4.79 earlier today.

The company's stock has struggled alongside the broader S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) this year. That's despite it reporting seemingly decent growth in its most recent trading update, released in April.

Megaport shares are nearly 73% lower year to date.

The post 3 high-quality ASX 200 shares trading at 52-week lows right now appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.