There are a lot of options for investors in the mining sector. But with so much choice, it can be hard to decide which ones to buy over others.

Don't worry, because the team at Morgans has been busy picking out the best ASX shares to buy this month. Two ASX mining shares that the broker has on its list are named below.

Here's why they could be top mining options for investors:

Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN)

This mining and mining services company is on Morgans' list again in March. The broker continues to believe that Mineral Resources is the perfect option for investors looking for exposure to China's reopening from the pandemic. The broker explained:

MIN is a founder-led business and top tier miner and crusher that has grown consistently despite barely issuing a share over the last decade. Also helping our investment view is that MIN's diversification leaves it far more capable of tolerating volatility in lithium markets than its peers in the sector. We see MIN's lithium / iron ore market exposures as an ideal combination to benefit from the China re-opening increase in demand during 1H'CY23. We also see MIN as well placed to grow into its valuation, even if we see unexpected metal price volatility, given the magnitude of organic growth in the pipeline.

Morgans has an add rating and $102.00 price target on Mineral Resources' shares. The broker is also forecasting a double digit dividend yield next year.

South32 Ltd (ASX: S32)

The other ASX 200 mining share that makes the list this month is South32. Morgans is bullish on the diversified mining giant due to its belief that it is well-placed for the future thanks to its portfolio transformation. It commented:

S32 has transformed its portfolio by divesting South African thermal coal and acquiring an interest in Chile copper, substantially boosting group earnings quality, as well as S32's risk and ESG profile. Unlike its peers amongst ASX-listed large-cap miners, S32 is not exposed to iron ore. Instead offering a highly diversified portfolio of base metals and metallurgical coal (with most of these metals enjoying solid price strength). We see attractive long-term value potential in S32 from de-risking of its growth portfolio, the potential for further portfolio changes, and an earnings-linked dividend policy.

Morgans currently has an add rating and $5.60 price target on South32's shares. The broker expects an almost 5% dividend yield this year.

The post These are the best ASX 200 mining shares to buy in March: Morgans appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

ASX 200 lithium shares are being bludgeoned on Friday following news out of Shanghai that lithium prices have fallen to their lowest level since January 2022.

Here is a summary of today's share market activity:

• The Allkem Ltd (ASX: AKE) share price is down 7.2% to $11.56
• The Pilbara Minerals Ltd (ASX: PLS) share price is down 6.1% to $4.02
• The Liontown Resources Ltd (ASX: LTR) share price is down 6.2% to $1.59
• The Sayona Mining Ltd (ASX: SYA) share price is down 6% today to 24 cents
• The IGO Ltd (ASX: IGO) share price is down 6% to $12.98
• The Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN) share price is down 5.3% to $84.30
• The Core Lithium Ltd (ASX: CXO) share price is down 4.5% to 96 cents.

What's behind the drop in ASX 200 lithium shares on Friday?

The Australian Financial Review (AFR) reports the lithium carbonate equivalent price has fallen to US$49,757 per tonne, according to Shanghai Metals Market data.

Lithium carbonate has been on a sustained decline since November 2022. Back then, the commodity was trading above US$86,100 per tonne. It has since lost 42% of its value.

Lithium prices are directly influenced by global demand for electric vehicles (EVs). Analysts are blaming China's cessation of EV subsidies this year for the continuing slide in lithium prices.

Top broker Goldman Sachs has been bearish on lithium prices since mid-2022.

In its latest forecast released before today's fall in the carbonate price, Goldman said all types of lithium would dramatically fall in value over the next few years.

The broker thinks supply will start to outweigh demand, thereby putting downward pressure on spot prices from 2H FY23.

Here are Goldman's forecasted prices.

Carbonate (per tonne)

• Spot price today: US$49,757
• 2023: US$53,300
• 2024: US$11,000
• 2025: US$11,000

Hydroxide (per tonne)

• Spot price today: US$72,600
• 2023: US$58,650
• 2024: US$12,500
• 2025: US$12,500

Spodumene 6% (per tonne)

• Spot price today: US$5,080
• 2023: US$4,330
• 2024: US$800
• 2025: US$800

The post Why are ASX 200 lithium shares falling so hard today? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

In fact, if you're patient, you could be earning over $1,000 in passive income from a $10,000 investment next year.

$1,000 income from this ASX stock

If you were to invest $10,000 into Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN) shares right now, you would receive 112 shares based on the current share price of $89.01.

According to a note out of Bell Potter, its analysts are expecting the mining and mining services company to pay fully franked dividends per share of $3.73 in FY 2023. This means that those 112 shares would provide investors with income of approximately $420.

But it gets much better in FY 2024. Thanks to the company's booming lithium operations, the broker is expecting a huge jump in the Mineral Resources dividend to a fully franked $9.41 per share.

If this forecast is accurate, those 112 shares would yield a massive $1,053 in dividends.

And if you continue to hold onto this ASX stock in FY 2025, Bell Potter reckons you'll be benefiting from another dividend increase to $9.60 per share. This would generate $1,075 in passive income from those 112 shares.

What about capital gains?

Another positive is that Bell Potter believes fair value for the Mineral Resources share price is notably higher than current levels.

It has a buy rating and $110.00 price target on its shares.

If this ASX stock were to climb to that level, your 112 shares would have a market value of $12,320. That's a 23% return on your original investment even before the dividends start rolling in.

The post Investing $10k in this ASX stock could generate passive income of over $1k per year appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Here's what analysts are expecting from these high yield ASX dividend shares:

Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN)

The first ASX 200 dividend share that has been tipped to provide investors with big dividend yields is Mineral Resources. It is a mining and mining services company with exposure to iron ore and lithium.

The company's lithium operations are likely to be the key to its big dividends in the coming years. This was the case during the first half, with Bell Potter noting that "MIN reported that lithium contributed 80% of group EBITDA."

In response, the broker has put a buy rating and $110.00 price target on its shares.

As for dividends, Bell Potter is expecting fully franked dividends per share of $3.73 in FY 2023 $9.41 in FY 2024, and $9.60 in FY 2025. Based on the current Mineral Resources share price of $87.35, this will mean 4.3%, 10.8%, and 11% dividend yields, respectively.

Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC)

Westpac could be another high yield ASX 200 dividend share to buy according to analysts.

Thanks partly to a combination of rising interest rates and its bold cost cutting plans, the team at Morgans believe the bank has "the greatest potential for return on equity improvement amongst the major banks if its business transformation initiatives prove successful."

In light of this, the broker currently has an add rating and $25.80 price target on its shares.

All in all, its analysts believe this should underpin some big dividends and notes that the "yield including franking is attractive for income-oriented investors."

Morgans is forecasting fully franked dividends per share of 153 cents in FY 2023, 159 cents in FY 2024, and 161 cents in FY 2025. Based on the current Westpac share price of $22.11, this will mean yields of 6.9%, 7.2%, and 7.3%, respectively.

The post Forget high interest savings accounts and buy these ASX 200 dividend shares with huge yields: analysts appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Investors wanting to receive one or more of those payouts will need to own the stocks by market close today.

So, without further ado, here are the four ASX 200 mining shares going ex-dividend tomorrow.

Four ASX 200 mining shares trading ex-dividend on Thursday

First up we have industry giant, BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP).

BHP reported its half-year results on 21 February. Pressured by lower commodity prices during the first months of the reporting period, the miner saw profits from operations drop 27% year on year. That saw the interim dividend reduced by 40%.

Still, eligible investors will receive a fully franked dividend of $1.31 per share.

If you own BHP shares at market close today, you can expect that payment on 30 March.

The next ASX 200 mining share trading ex-dividend tomorrow is Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO).

Rio Tinto reported its full-year results on 22 February. Like BHP, the miner faced lower iron ore prices and rising labour and energy costs. This saw its net profit after tax (NPAT) fall 41% from the prior year to US$12.4 billion.

This was reflected in the 46% reduction in Rio Tinto's fully franked final dividend of $3.27 per share. Payment is due on 20 April.

Also trading ex-dividend tomorrow is South32 Ltd (ASX: S32).

The ASX 200 mining share reported its half-year results on 16 February. As with its competitors, lower commodity prices saw profits after tax tumble 34% year on year to US$685 million.

This also resulted in a 44% reduction in the fully franked interim dividend, to 7.1 cents per share. If you own South32 shares at the closing bell today, that payment should hit your bank account on 6 April.

And the fourth ASX 200 mining share trading ex-dividend tomorrow is Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN).

Mineral Resources reported its half-year results on 24 February. Unlike the three miners above, the company saw underlying NPAT soar 1,175% to $387 million, driven by record earnings from its lithium segment.

Mineral Resources didn't pay an interim dividend last year. But with rocketing profits this year, the board declared an interim fully franked dividend of $1.20 per share.

Eligible shareholders can expect that payment on 30 March.

Happy income investing!

The post Last chance to snag the next dividend from these 4 ASX 200 mining shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

When a share goes ex-dividend, it means the rights to an upcoming dividend have been settled.

As a result, if you want to receive any of these dividends, you have until the close of play today to buy shares.

Which ASX 200 shares are trading ex-dividend on Thursday?

There are 10 ASX 200 stock that are due to trade ex-dividend on Thursday. This includes some of the biggest dividend payers on the Australian share market.

Here's a summary:

ASX Ltd (ASX: ASX)

This stock exchange operator's shares will go ex-dividend for its fully franked interim dividend of 116.2 cents per share tomorrow. This will be paid to shareholders on 29 March.

BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP)

Last month, the Big Australian declared a fully franked interim dividend of 130.6 cents per share. This is scheduled to hit shareholders' bank accounts on 30 March.

CSL Limited (ASX: CSL)

After going ex-dividend tomorrow, ASX 200 biotherapeutics giant CSL will be paying its shareholders a partially franked 154.9 cents per share interim dividend on 5 April.

IDP Education Ltd (ASX: IEL)

This language testing and student placement company declared a 21 cents per share partially franked dividend last month. This will be paid at the end of the month on 31 March.

Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN)

Last month, thanks to surging lithium earnings, this ASX 200 mining and mining services company increased its interim dividend to a fully franked $1.20 per share. The payment date for this dividend is 30 March.

Monadelphous Group Ltd (ASX: MND)

This mining services company declared a fully franked interim dividend of 24 cents per share last month. This will be paid to shareholders at the end of the month on 31 March.

Perpetual Limited (ASX: PPT)

This fund manager was forced to slash its interim dividend last month to a partially franked 55 cents per share. This will be paid to shareholders on 31 March.

Reliance Worldwide Corporation Ltd (ASX: RWC)

This plumbing parts company declared a partially franked 6.5 cents per share interim dividend last month. It plans to pay this to shareholders next month on 6 April.

Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO)

Although this mining giant was forced to cut its final dividend in response to falling iron ore prices, it was still able to declare a hefty 326.5 cents per share fully franked dividend. This is expected to be paid to eligible shareholders on 20 April.

South32 Ltd (ASX: S32)

This diversified miner released its half-year results last month and declared a 7.1 cents per share fully franked dividend. This will be lining the pockets of shareholders on 6 April.

The post 10 ASX 200 stocks trading ex-dividend tomorrow appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

ASX shares capable of both capital growth and dividend income are a rare combination sought by many investors.

Sure, one could pick up a big bank to reap income, but they have no massive prospect of growth in a saturated market.

Conversely, a high-flying tech company might do the trick for future growth, but very rarely do they pay out a decent dividend. Any free cash is ploughed back into the business to fuel further growth.

In the current climate of a stressed economy from rising interest rates, stocks with the golden combination have become even rarer.

Fortunately for The Motley Fool readers, one expert named two such ASX shares they could buy right now:

'Well managed' business giving plenty back to investors

The Silk Logistics Holdings Ltd (ASX: SLH) share price has remarkably gained more than 20% over the past 12 months, during a period when most non-mining stocks tanked.

What's more, it already pays out a dividend yield of 4.7%.

Morgans investment advisor Jabin Hallihan reckons the stock price could head up 54% from the current level of around $2.47 while paying out even more dividend.

"Our valuation is $3.80 a share," Hallihan told The Bull.

"We forecast a gross dividend yield of about 5%."

The business is "well managed", he added, and presented impressively during reporting season.

"The integrated logistics provider posted revenue of $253.6 million in the first half of fiscal year 2023, an increase of 39.1% on the prior corresponding period," Hallihan said.

"Underlying net profit after tax of $9.8 million represented an increase of 32.4%."

The Morgans team is expecting Silk Logistics to rake in between $480 million and $500 million for the full financial year.

'A significant development' for lithium business

Mining services provider Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN) digs up all sorts of minerals, but its involvement in lithium production has seen its share price rocket 83% over the past year.

But the stock has remained flat over the past month due to a lukewarm reporting season.

Hallihan is still bullish on the Western Australian company.

"While the first half 2023 result didn't meet consensus expectations, we expect a stronger second half as we anticipate lower costs."

He noted the recently announced budding agreements with the US company Albemarle Corporation (NYSE: ALB).

"We expect an equal joint venture conversion agreement to obtain a capacity of producing 100,000 tonnes of lithium chemicals a year from 2025.

"It's a significant development amid increasing demand for lithium."

The Morgans team has placed its fair valuation for Mineral Resources at $102, suggesting a 16.4% upside from the current level.

The dividend yield for Mineral Resources stands at 2.5% fully franked.

The post 2 ASX shares offering both growth and nice dividends: expert appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN) share price is down 1.86% in early morning trading.

Shares in the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) resources producer closed yesterday at $89.11 each. They are currently changing hands for $87.45 apiece.

This comes as Mineral Resources' takeover of Norwest Energy NL (ASX: NWE) looks to be entering the final lap.

What's happening with the Norwest takeover?

Mineral Resources first announced its plans for an off-market takeover bid of Norwest –  its minority joint venture partner in the Lockyer Deep gas project in the Perth Basin – on 16 December.

On the day of the announcement, the Mineral Resources share price retreated, pressured by broader market weakness.

Commenting on the takeover at the time, MinRes managing director Chris Ellison highlighted the massive potential of Lockyer Deep.

"The significant conventional gas discovery we made at Lockyer Deep last year, which we believe may be the largest onshore gas find in Australia, is driving us to develop and commercialise this high-quality energy source as quickly as possible," Ellison said.

In today's announcement (released after market close yesterday), the company reported that as at 2 March, it had voting power in Norwest of approximately 70%.

Adding some pressure on shareholders who've yet to accept the offer, Mineral Resources noted that if it acquires 80% of Norwest shares, shareholders "may be eligible for rollover tax relief".

Norwest shareholders who take up the deal will receive one MinRes share for every 1,300 Norwest shares held. At the current Mineral Resources share price, that represents a premium of just under 1% to the current Norwest share price (down 1.47% at the time of writing).

The company stressed the offer was final and would not be increased.

It added that if it's entitled to proceed to compulsory acquisition, Norwest shareholders not accepting the offer will receive the same consideration, but at a later date than if they'd accepted.

Mineral Resources said if it is not entitled to proceed to compulsory acquisition, it may apply to de-list Norwest from the ASX, "in which case it may become more difficult for Norwest shareholders to sell their Norwest shares".

Commenting on the final stages of the takeover, Ellison said:

I'm encouraged that so many Norwest shareholders have accepted our Offer and now have exposure to MinRes' world-class portfolio of diversified assets. Norwest shareholders will receive extraordinary value by accepting our offer and joining us in one of Australia's fastest growing companies.

In a separate release this morning that was marked as potentially having an impact on the Mineral Resources share price, the company provided a detailed report on its JP Morgan, Global High Yield Conference presentation.

Mineral Resources share price snapshot

Despite today's dip, the Mineral Resources share price remains a strong outperformer, up an impressive 85% since this time last year.

The post Mineral Resources share price slides as Norwest takeover bid heats up appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

I understand why investors are attracted to names like Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) and Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS). But, I'm looking for businesses that can provide much more growth in the coming years.

It's much easier to grow a business from $5 billion to $10 billion, than $50 billion to $100 billion, in my opinion.

With that in mind, I think these two ASX All Ords shares are very interesting with their growth plans.

Pacific Current Group Ltd (ASX: PAC)

Pacific Current describes itself as a multi-boutique asset management business that applies strategic resources, including capital, institutional distribution capabilities and operational expertise to help partners. As of February 2023, it had investments in 15 asset managers globally.

Some of its investments include Banner Oak, Astarte, ROC, Victory Park and GQG Partners Inc (ASX: GQG).

In the first half of FY23, the company saw its boutiques' funds under management (FUM) rise by 3.5% to $175 billion. It boasted that its boutiques have had 24 consecutive quarters of positive net flows. Management fee-related revenue increased 52%.

The All Ords ASX share is expecting management fee revenue and performance fee revenue. Additional investments are "likely" in the second half of FY23.

By FY25, the business could be paying an annual dividend of 47 cents per share. That would be a grossed-up dividend yield of close to 10%.

Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN)

Mineral Resources is one of the larger All Ords ASX mining shares. It offers mining services, while also being a sizeable iron ore miner and lithium miner itself.

While the business is already making profits thanks to its current mining operations, the company's expansion efforts in both iron and lithium are expected to unlock larger profit and cash flow generation.

Using the estimates on Commsec, the business is expected to generate earnings per share (EPS) of $7.32 in FY23.

In FY24, the business is expected to more than double its EPS. The current estimate for the 2024 financial year is $15.82 in EPS. That means Mineral Resources shares are valued at around 6 times FY24's estimated earnings.

The business is only expected to pay around a third of its earnings out as a dividend in FY24. The dividend per share could be $5.46, which would be a grossed-up dividend yield of 8.7%.

However, future dividends could be dependent on how commodity prices change from here.

The post Which ASX All Ords shares would be on my watchlist for generating massive dividends? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

But which shares should you buy for dividends? Two that have recently been rated as buys for investors are listed below. Here's what you need to know about them:

Elders Ltd (ASX: ELD)

This agribusiness company could be an ASX dividend share to buy according to analysts at Goldman Sachs.

With its shares down materially from their highs, the broker believes investors should be snapping them up before it's too late. Particularly given that Goldman feels "the fundamentals of this company remain unchanged." The broker also notes that "ELD is very well positioned to grow through the cycle."

Its analysts have a conviction buy rating and $18.40 price target on Elders' shares.

As for dividends, Goldman is forecasting fully franked dividends per share of 53 cents in FY 2023 and 57 cents in FY 2024. Based on the current Elders share price of $9.07, this will mean yields of 5.8% and 6.3%, respectively.

Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN)

Another ASX dividend share for income investors to consider buying is Mineral Resources.

Bell Potters appears to believe it could be a top option for investors right now. That's because the broker expects the mining and mining services company's lithium exposure to support strong earnings and big dividends in the coming years.

Its analysts currently have a buy rating and $110.00 price target on its shares.

In respect to its dividends, Bell Potter is expecting fully franked dividends of $3.73 per share in FY 2023 and $9.41 per share in FY 2024. Based on the current Mineral Resources share price of $88.70, this will mean 4.2% and 10.6% dividend yields, respectively.

The post Want passive income? These are the ASX dividend shares to buy according to experts appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Here's how Australia's top five lithium shares have performed since the closing bell rang last Friday:

• Pilbara Minerals Ltd (ASX: PLS) shares are down 9.7%
• Core Lithium Ltd (ASX: CXO) shares are down 1.0%
• Allkem Ltd (ASX: AKE) shares are up 2.6%
• IGO Ltd (ASX: IGO) shares are up 3.2%
• Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN) shares are up 6.8%

So, what's been impacting ASX 200 lithium stocks this week?

ASX 200 lithium stocks eye China production curbs

Some surprising news came out of China this week, with lithium ore-processing operations in Yichun, Jiangxi province ordered to halt operations.

This came as Chinese officials launched an investigation into the lithium miners in the province over potential environmental violations. With Yichun producing roughly 10% of the annual global lithium supply, investors in ASX 200 lithium stocks were keeping an eye on the developments.

It remains unclear how long the operations will remain offline.

This week also saw Goldman Sachs come out with a new, decidedly bearish forecast for lithium prices. The broker cited the risk of "higher than expected lithium supply" in China, coupled with ASX 200 lithium stocks "recently outperforming production expectations [and] increasing near term production guidance".

What helped lift the Mineral Resources and Allkem share prices?

Both Allkem and Mineral Resources are in the green over the week, potentially bolstered by some positive broker coverage.

Analysts at Bell Potter released bullish coverage on Mineral Resources, with a buy rating on the stock and a $110 price target. That's 21% above the Mineral Resources current share price.

Bell Potter noted that the ASX 200 lithium stock reported a higher profit for the six months ending 31 December than it generated in the entire 12-month period preceding that. And its analysts expect more strong growth ahead.

Meanwhile, Allkem was tipped as a buy this week by Goldman Sachs, despite the broker's rather dire outlook for lithium prices.

Goldman has a $15.40 12-month price target on Allkem shares, 26% above the current share price. "Allkem has one of the best production outlooks in our lithium coverage," the broker noted.

Why did the Pilbara Minerals share price underperform this week?

While not accounting for all of this week's underperformance, much of Pilbara Minerals' sell-off this week was due to its shares trading ex-dividend yesterday.

A week ago Friday, Pilbara Minerals reported on its half-year results.

On the back of a stellar 989% year on year increase in statutory net profit after tax (NPAT), the ASX 200 lithium stock rewarded investors with its first-ever dividend of 11 cents per share, fully franked.

It's pretty standard for stocks to lose as much, or slightly more, than their dividend payouts on the day they trade without those rights. And Pilbara Minerals proved no exception.

The post What's happening with ASX 200 lithium stocks this week? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

In afternoon trade, the mining and mining services company's shares are up 1% to $90.96.

This means the Mineral Resources share price is now up over 90% since this time last year, as you can see below.

Can Mineral Resources shares keep rising?

The good news is that one leading broker doesn't believe it is too late to jump on the Mineral Resources train.

In fact, its analysts believe that train is going to chug meaningfully higher from current levels over the next 12 months.

According to a note out of Bell Potter, its analysts have a buy rating and $110.00 price target on its shares.

Based on the current Mineral Resources share price, this implies potential upside of 21%.

Why is Bell Potter bullish?

Bell Potter was impressed with Mineral Resources' first-half performance, noting that it generated more profit during the six months than it did in the entirety of FY 2022. It said:

Revenue was $2,350m (vs BPe $2,163m). Underlying EBITDA: $939m (vs BPe $901m). Net profit after tax: $390m (vs BPe $399.3m), already exceeding the FY22 full year result.

But the broker doesn't expect its earnings growth to stop there. Far from it! Its analysts conclude:

We maintain our Buy recommendation and Target price. Over the next two years we forecast that as the business transformation is completed, MIN's growing production volumes, and improving margins, supported by strong commodity prices, will result in significant earnings growth. In addition to growth in lithium, MIN is undertaking significant Iron Ore growth at the Onslow Iron Project, and developing its Energy business.

It is also worth noting that Bell Potter expects this to underpin a $9.39 per share dividend in FY 2024. This represents a 10.3% dividend yield at current prices.

The post Buy Minerals Resources shares for 21% upside: broker appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) posted a slight gain on Thursday, lifting 0.05% to close at 7,255.4 points.

It comes on the back of a strong session for the S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ), which rose 2.9%.

It was helped along by shares in the market's biggest company BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) which had their best day in months, gaining 4% to close at $48.05.

Higher gold and iron ore prices also likely helped the sector. Gold futures price added 0.5% overnight to reach US$1,845.40 an ounce while iron ore futures lifted 0.8% to US$126.80 a tonne.

The S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) also outperformed, increasing 1.4% after oil prices gained 1% overnight.  

On the other hand, the S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ) fell 1.9%, with the big four banks coming in among its losers.

But which ASX 200 share came out on top of all others on Thursday? Let's take a look.

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

Today's top-performing stock was none other than mining giant South32 Ltd (ASX: S32). It rose 5.15% to close at $4.70.

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.

That's because analysts at Morgans have named these lithium shares as buys this week.

What is the broker saying about ASX 200 lithium shares?

The good news is that Morgans believes that lithium prices will remain higher for longer due to tight supply conditions.

It expects this to be driven by a post-holiday recovery in the Chinese electric vehicle (EV) market and lithium project delays. It explained:

Spot prices have softened but remain above contract prices. The Chinese EV market, still the world's largest, has slowed recently for the Spring Festival but we expect activity to increase in the near future. Meanwhile, lithium projects are taking longer to complete leaving the market tight. Decreasing lithium production but increasing demand reflected in analyst consensus of key Chinese companies points to tightness continuing.

In light of this, the broker believes that Allkem Ltd (ASX: AKE), Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN), and Pilbara Minerals Ltd (ASX: PLS) shares are buys, with fellow ASX 200 lithium share Liontown Resources Ltd (ASX: LTR) a higher risk speculative buy.

Its ratings are as follows:

• Add rating and $15.20 price target on Allkem's shares.
• Add rating and $102.00 price target on Mineral Resources' shares.
• Add rating and $5.30 price target on Pilbara Minerals' shares.
• Speculative buy rating and $1.96 price target on Liontown's shares.

Commenting on its ratings, the broker said:

We continue to prefer AKE amongst the lithium pure plays as we see a longer growth runway for production and greater potential valuation upside. PLS is generating strong cash flows and holds opportunities for more tactical trades given speculation about potential uses of the growing cash balance.

MIN has been more resilient than peers and offers more diversified commodity exposures. The potential upside is less than other lithium large caps but it has also shown less volatility and stronger potential dividend yield. We retain our ADD rating. We initiate coverage of LTR (SPECULATIVE BUY) and CXO (HOLD). Both are near-term developers of Australian spodumene deposits. We see upside for LTR if it can resolve its funding issues and avoid further significant cost increases.

The post 4 ASX 200 lithium shares to buy now: broker appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) traded in the green for much of Wednesday before plunging into the red at the last moment. It ended the day 0.09% lower at 7,251.6 points.

And mining shares led much of its gains, with the S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) coming in as today's top-performing sector. It rose 2.3% to regain all of its Monday losses.

The S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) also outperformed today, gaining 1.6% following a strong overnight session for oil prices.

Brent crude oil rose 1.7% to US$83.89 a barrel overnight while US Nymex crude oil lifted 1.8% to trade at US$77.05 a barrel.

But not all rejoiced today. The S&P/ASX 200 Communications Index (ASX: XTJ) fell 2.3% on Wednesday as Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS) shares traded ex-dividend.

So, with all that covered, which ASX 200 share posted the index's biggest gain today? Let's take a look.

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

Today's top-performing ASX 200 share was none other than Ramelius Resources Ltd (ASX: RMS). It gained 6.7% to close at $0.955 despite only silence from the gold miner.

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.

As the close of trading draws near, the top 5 best-performing shares of the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) are all mining stocks.

Leading the bunch is ASX gold share Ramelius Resources Ltd (ASX: RMS), up 6.15% to 95 cents.

Next on the list is ASX lithium share Allkem Ltd (ASX: AKE), up 5.77% to $12.01.

Then we have gold miner Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN), whose share price is up 4.78% to $2.85.

It's followed by iron ore share Champion Iron Ltd (ASX: CIA), up 4.6% to $7.70.

Rounding out the top 5 are Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN) shares, up 4.6% to $86.34.

What's pushing ASX 200 mining shares higher?

Ramelius Resources has not reported any news today. However, Ramelius shares have risen by 14% since the miner released its 1H FY23 results on 21 February.

The miner reported a small decline in sales revenue to $304.8 million and a 33.7% decline in underlying EBITDA to $106.3 million. However, it reaffirmed its FY23 production guidance of between 240,000 ounces and 280,000 ounces at an all-in sustaining cost of between $1,750 per ounce and $1,950 per ounce.

Moving on to Allkem shares, which are shining brightly today after top broker Goldman Sachs backed the company to withstand the coming decline in lithium prices better than other ASX lithium shares.

The broker reckons there's a 30%-plus upside for Allkem shares over the next 12 months.

As my Fool colleague James reports, Goldman says Allkem's production growth potential and downstream opportunity will see it through a big decline in lithium prices over the next few years.

Evolution Mining told the ASX yesterday it has seen ongoing drilling success at its Ernest Henry site. Investors are excited about the news, with Evolution shares up 7% since the announcement.

Evolution Mining CEO Lawrie Conway said: "The significance of the recent drilling intercepts released today indicates that Bert, which is located adjacent to the open pit, is a sizable mineralisation domain that remains open down-plunge."

There's been no news from Champion Iron over the past three weeks.

Finally, Mineral Resources shares are also up on no news today. However, last week the company revealed incredible earnings growth in its 1H FY23 report.

Its net profit after tax (NPAT) went up 1,890% to $390 million over the half. Revenue increased by 74% to $2,350 million, driven by turbocharged lithium revenue of $997.2 million, up from $143 million year over year.

The post Why are ASX 200 mining shares leading the market today? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

We'll get to that news in a tick.

First, here's how the top five lithium shares are performing in afternoon trade today:

• Pilbara Minerals Ltd (ASX: PLS) shares are up 2.4%
• Core Lithium Ltd (ASX: CXO) shares are up 2.7%
• Allkem Ltd (ASX: AKE) shares are up 5.2%
• IGO Ltd (ASX: IGO) shares are up 2.8%
• Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN) shares are up 3.49%

Looks like greed is trumping fear for investors in ASX 200 lithium stocks today.

But should they be concerned?

Why this 6% decline in China matters for ASX 200 lithium stocks

China produces approximately 75% of the world's lithium-ion batteries each year.

And the Middle Kingdom boasts by far the largest production and sales figures for EVs of any nation on Earth.

In December alone, the China Automobile Association reported China produced 795,000 EVs. And the nation's dealers dipped into their inventories, with a whopping 814,000 EVs sold.

The story was much the same throughout 2022. And this surge in demand helped drive lithium prices to all-time highs last year. Since that peak, prices have retraced some 30%. But many analysts are forecasting they could have further to fall.

The decline is partly demand related.

As Reuters reports, January saw a 6.3% decline in sales of EVs and plug-in hybrids in China. That's after the sector grew 90% in 2022.

Commenting on the potential impact, Barrenjoey analysts said, "While we remain positive on the long-term outlook for lithium, the short-term outlook is less clear, with a clear acceleration in China EV sales needed to allay market fears."

January's decline is likely linked to the government's plan to end subsidies for EVs. But it's fuelling concerns that demand growth may slow just as supply growth looks set to explode.

Too much lithium?

ASX 200 lithium stocks could come under pressure more from a potential excess supply hitting the markets than from any big fall in demand.

And some analysts are forecasting this will see prices for the battery-critical metal continue to fall.

Chinese spot prices for lithium carbonate have dropped from some 600,000 yuan ($128,000) per tonne at the November peak to around 400,000 yuan ($86,000) today.

Commenting on market dynamics, vice president at Rystad Energy Susan Zou said (as quoted by Reuters):

Demand is still healthy, but battery and EV makers are currently destocking instead of placing new orders. The subdued spot demand therefore is weighing on sentiment and pressing down prices..

A lithium carbonate price of 200,000-300,000 yuan per tonne is where both upstream and downstream will feel comfortable.

"Supply is coming on stream faster than you can say 'boo'," Ord Minnett analyst Dylan Kelly added. "Demand remains strong, but prices have been unsustainable for some time now."

Indeed, many lithium miners are not yet at the production stage. As they do begin producing, global supplies will ramp up.

Even among the ASX 200 lithium stocks, only Allkem, Mineral Resources, and Pilbara Minerals are currently producing.

Core Lithium looks to be next in line. Maiden spodumene concentrate production from its Finniss Lithium Project is expected to commence in the first half of 2023.

The post Investing in ASX 200 lithium stocks? Here's why this 6% decline in China matters appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Here's what you need to know about these buy-rated ASX dividend shares:

Jumbo Interactive Ltd (ASX: JIN)

The first ASX dividend share that could be in the buy zone is Jumbo Interactive. It is the company behind the OzLotteries website/app and the Powered by Jumbo software-as-a-service (SaaS) platform.

Morgans is a big fan of the company and, earlier this week, put an add rating and $16.50 pirce target on its shares following the release of its half-year results.

While the results were softer than it was expecting, the broker remains positive on the future and believes Jumbo is well-placed for growth in the coming years. It said:

We believe JIN offers excellent strategic growth opportunities, both in Australia and overseas, supported by a steadily expanding domestic market for digital lottery retailing. The business is cash generative and has a low requirement for ongoing capex.

As for dividends, Morgans is forecasting fully franked dividends per share of 43 cents in FY 2023 and 51 cents in FY 2024. Based on the latest Jumbo share price of $13.58, this will mean yields of 3.2% and 3.8%, respectively.

Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN)

Another ASX dividend share that brokers rate as a buy is Mineral Resources. It is a mining and mining services company with exposure to lithium and iron ore.

Bell Potter is positive on Mineral Resources and has a buy rating and $111.00 price target on its shares. The broker believes the company is well-placed for strong earnings and dividend growth in the coming years. It recently commented:

Over the next two years we forecast that as the business transformation is completed, MIN's growing production volumes, and improving margins, supported by strong commodity prices, will result in significant earnings growth.

In respect to dividends, Bell Potter is forecasting fully franked dividends of 388.7 cents per share in FY 2023 and 939.1 cents per share in FY 2024. Based on the current Mineral Resources share price of $82.56, this will mean yields of 4.7% and 11.4%, respectively.

The post Get a second income with these ASX dividend shares: experts appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The ASX 200 lithium stocks have been buoyed by soaring demand for lithium, a critical element in most EV batteries.

Although lithium prices have tumbled some 30% since hitting record highs last year, as short-term supply catches up to demand, the big miners are still handily outperforming the benchmark.

Here's how their share prices have moved over the last 12 months:

• Pilbara Minerals Ltd (ASX: PLS) shares are up 54%
• Core Lithium Ltd (ASX: CXO) shares are up 20%
• Allkem Ltd (ASX: AKE) shares are up 25%
• IGO Ltd (ASX: IGO) shares are up 19%
• Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN) shares are up 82%

So, why are these ASX 200 lithium shares watching China?

ASX 200 lithium shares eyeing 10% cut in global lithium supply

China is not only the world's top producer of EVs, but it also produces some 75% of the world's lithium-ion batteries. And according to the International Energy Agency, the Middle Kingdom accounts for around 60% of global lithium supplies.

And it's this supply-side factor that will be drawing the interest of ASX 200 lithium shares.

This comes as news breaks that environmental officials are investigating lithium miners in Yichun, Jiangxi province for breaching regulations.

Yichun produces approximately 10% of the annual global lithium supply.

As Bloomberg reports, ore-processing operations in Yichun have been brought to a halt as the investigation takes place. It's not yet known how long the closure orders will remain in place.

The refineries are still running.

What are the experts saying?

Commenting on the environmental crackdown that's being followed by ASX 200 lithium shares and miners around the world, Susan Zou, an analyst at Rystad Energy said, "This supervision may mean that the inspection and control over lepidolite mining in China will be more stringent in the future."

Lepidolite is a lithium-bearing mineral. And analysts had expected Jiangxi province would provide significant new supplies.

The big question now, and one which could well impact the price of lithium and hence ASX 200 lithium shares, is how long the shutdowns will last.

China's annual parliamentary meetings take place in March.

"At present, the market speculation is that the probe may stop after the two sessions in China next month," Zou said.

Chris Berry, president of industry consultancy House Mountain Partners, added (quoted by Bloomberg):

Any mine would typically have a stockpile of ore in place, so as long as the refineries are operating, you aren't likely to see any whipsaw in lithium pricing. Should these mines be halted for months, then this becomes a different story.

Certainly, a story worth following.

The post Why ASX 200 lithium shares are eyeing this surprising new Chinese move appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Three top ASX shares that leading brokers have named as buys this week are listed below. Here's why they are bullish on them:

Allkem Ltd (ASX: AKE)

According to a note out of Goldman Sachs, its analysts have retained their buy rating on this lithium miner's shares with a slightly trimmed price target of $15.40. Goldman was pleased with Allkem's first-half result, noting that its EBITDA came in slightly ahead of expectations. Looking ahead, Allkem is Goldman's preferred lithium exposure due to its optionality across the Americas and Australia on the largest lithium resource under its coverage and its discount to peers at 0.85x NAV (versus peer average ~1.1x). The Allkem share price is trading at $11.25 today.

Jumbo Interactive Ltd (ASX: JIN)

A note out of Morgans reveals that its analysts have retained their add rating on this online lottery ticket seller's shares with a lowered price target of $16.50. Although Jumbo's half-year earnings were a touch short of expectations, the broker remains positive on the future due to the shift online. It also sees plenty of value in its shares at the current level. The Jumbo share price is fetching $13.90 this afternoon.

Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN)

Another note out of Morgans reveals that its analysts have retained their add rating on this mining and mining services company's shares with an improved price target of $102.00. While Mineral Resources' half-year result was short of consensus estimates, it was largely in line with what the broker was forecasting. Outside this, Morgans has upgraded its valuation of Mineral Resources' lithium operations. This has more than offset a downgrade to the valuation of its iron ore operations. The Mineral Resources share price is trading at $79.99 on Monday.

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