#ASX shares

[inveswithdavid]

In 2024, I'm Monitoring the SOL Share Price

The Australian Stock Exchange (ASX) hosts a diverse array of companies, each with its own unique characteristics and investment appeal. In this article, we delve into the share price performance and key attributes of two prominent ASX-listed entities: Washington H. Soul Pattinson Ltd (ASX: SOL) and Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL).

Washington H. Soul Pattinson Ltd

Established in 1903, Washington H. Soul Pattinson (ASX:SOL) stands as one of the oldest investment companies listed on the ASX. With a rich history spanning over a century, SOL boasts a diversified portfolio of assets spanning various industries and asset classes.

Investment Portfolio and Mission

SOL's investment portfolio includes significant stakes in renowned publicly listed companies such as TPG Telecom (ASX: TPG), New Hope Group (ASX: NHC), and a cross shareholding in Brickworks (ASX: BKW). The company's mission revolves around delivering superior returns to its shareholders through capital growth and steadily increasing dividends. As a family-run Listed Investment Company (LIC), SOL prioritizes the alignment of interests between management and shareholders.

Share Price Analysis

In 2024, SOL's share price has experienced a notable uptick, rising by 27.5% since the beginning of the year. Despite fluctuations, SOL maintains a strong track record of capital growth and dividend payments. Currently, the company offers a dividend yield of approximately 2.72%, trading below its 5-year average of 2.54%. This suggests potential value for investors considering SOL shares.

Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL)

Founded in 1914, Coles Group Ltd (COL) is a leading Australian retailer offering a diverse range of everyday products, including fresh food, groceries, general merchandise, liquor, fuel, and financial services. Despite its humble beginnings, Coles has evolved into a household name, serving millions of customers across Australia.

Business Operations

Coles' earnings primarily stem from its supermarkets segment, supplemented by revenues from adjacent businesses such as flybuys, Liquorland, First Choice, Vintage Cellars, and Coles Express. The company's commitment to providing quality products at competitive prices has solidified its position as a preferred shopping destination for Australian consumers.

Market Position

While Coles trails behind Woolworths in market share, holding approximately 28% compared to Woolworths' nearly 40%, it remains a formidable competitor in the retail landscape. With a strong presence in essential food and drink categories, Coles continues to attract millions of Australian shoppers weekly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Washington H. Soul Pattinson Ltd and Coles Group Ltd represent two prominent entities within the ASX ecosystem, each offering unique investment opportunities. While SOL boasts a diversified investment portfolio and a history of capital growth, Coles stands out as a leading retailer with a widespread consumer base. Investors seeking exposure to these sectors should carefully evaluate the respective attributes and growth prospects of SOL and COL.

[the-art-of-investing-in-stocks]

ASX BHP: A Diversified Mining and Petroleum Giant with Strong Financial Performance

BHP Group, also known as ASX BHP, is a multinational mining, metals, and petroleum company headquartered in Melbourne, Australia. With operations in over 90 locations worldwide, BHP is one of the largest diversified resource companies in the world.

In this article, we will take a closer look at ASX BHP, including its history, current operations, financial performance, and future prospects.

History of ASX BHP

BHP was originally founded in 1885 as the Broken Hill Proprietary Company Limited, named after the Broken Hill silver and lead mine in western New South Wales, Australia. Over the years, the company expanded into other commodities, including iron ore, copper, coal, and petroleum.

In 2001, BHP merger with Billiton plc, a mining company based in London, to form BHP Billiton. The merger created one of the largest mining companies in the world, with operations in over 25 countries.

In 2017, the company simplified its name to BHP Group, reflecting its focus on its core operations in mining, metals, and petroleum.

Current Operations

BHP operates in four main segments: iron ore, copper, coal, and petroleum. The company is the world's largest producer of iron ore and the second-largest producer of copper.

Iron Ore: BHP's iron ore operations are located in the Pilbara region of Western Australia. The company's operations in the region include five mines, a railway network, and two port facilities.

Copper: BHP's copper operations are located in Chile, Peru, and the United States. The company's copper assets include the Escondida mine in Chile, the world's largest copper mine.

Coal: BHP's coal operations are located in Australia, Colombia, and South Africa. The company produces both metallurgical coal (used in steelmaking) and thermal coal (used in electricity generation).

Petroleum: BHP's petroleum operations are located in Australia, the Gulf of Mexico, Trinidad and Tobago, and the Caribbean. The company produces both oil and gas.

Financial Performance

In the first half of the 2022 financial year, BHP reported a net profit of US$10.9 billion, up from US$3.9 billion in the same period the previous year. The company attributed the increase to higher commodity prices and increased production.

BHP's share price has also performed well in recent years, with the company's market capitalization reaching over A$300 billion in 2021.

Future Prospects

BHP is well-positioned to benefit from the growing demand for commodities, particularly from emerging economies such as China and India. The company has also been investing in renewable energy and technology to reduce its carbon footprint and improve its environmental performance.

In 2021, BHP announced plans to invest over US$5 billion in its petroleum business over the next five years, focusing on high-return growth opportunities in the Gulf of Mexico and Trinidad and Tobago.

Overall, ASX BHP is a well-established and financially sound company with a strong position in the global mining, metals, and petroleum markets. Its focus on sustainable and responsible business practices, combined with its diversified operations, make it a compelling investment opportunity for long-term investors.

Also check related tickers

ASX CBA

ASX FMG

ASX APT

ASX NAB

[tradetracker]

Strong Stocks To Watch On ASX - Hitting 52-Week Highs

Looking for the Strong Stocks to Watch ASX? Discover which companies have reached their 52-week high and are leading the market. This list offers valuable insights for investors seeking robust performance and growth potential in the ASX market. Don't miss these key opportunities.

[danielbrown01uk]

ASX WES Share Price And Latest Market Trends

Follow the latest ASX WES share price and market movements with Kalkine Media. Get comprehensive updates on Wesfarmers' stock performance, industry trends, and potential growth. Stay informed about key factors driving the ASX WES share price and enhance your investment strategy.

[tenth-sentence]

The sharemarket barometer, the ASX's All-Ordinaries index, fell from 1681 on 20 May to 1517 in August and by late September was 1485.

"Westpac: The Bank That Broke the Bank" - Edna Carew

[dailystockinsight]

ASX IAG Stock Analysis Exploring Insurance Australia Group 

Explore the performance of Insurance Australia Group (ASX:IAG) through this comprehensive analysis. Understand IAG's market position, financial health, and potential growth opportunities to make informed investment choices. Analyze IAG's insurance products, risk management strategies, and claims handling efficiency. Stay updated on regulatory changes, industry benchmarks, and how they impact IAG's market share and profitability. 

Check More Information Here: https://kalkine.com.au/company/asx-iag/ 

[aceinvestors]

The growing adoption of EVs is driving the demand for lithium

The growing adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) is driving the demand for lithium. Lithium (Li) is a good conductor of heat and electricity. In recent years, there has been a resurgence in demand for lithium due to its key role in lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles. Major global automakers are continuing to accelerate their plans to transition to EVs, by developing new product lines and converting existing manufacturing facilities for EVs. 

The growing adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) is a significant driver of the increasing demand for lithium. Lithium-ion batteries are the dominant technology used in electric vehicles due to their high energy density, lightweight nature, and rechargeable properties. As more countries and automakers commit to transitioning to electric vehicles, the demand for lithium is expected to rise.

Here are some key reasons why the adoption of EVs is driving lithium demand:

Battery Technology: Lithium-ion batteries are essential for powering electric vehicles. These batteries use lithium compounds as a key component of their cathodes. The high energy density of lithium-ion batteries makes them well-suited for electric vehicles, providing the necessary range and performance.

Government Policies: Many countries are implementing policies to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles as part of their efforts to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change. These policies often include incentives for EV buyers and regulations to limit the production and sale of traditional internal combustion engine vehicles.

Automaker Commitments: Several major automakers have made substantial commitments to transitioning their vehicle fleets to electric power. These commitments contribute to a long-term and sustained demand for lithium as the electric vehicle market continues to grow.

Technological Advancements: Ongoing research and development in battery technology aim to improve the efficiency and affordability of lithium-ion batteries. These advancements could further boost the adoption of EVs and increase the demand for lithium.

Global Market Trends: The global trend towards sustainable and clean energy solutions, including electric transportation, is a driving force behind the increasing demand for lithium.

Investors and industry stakeholders closely monitor these trends and factors when assessing the future prospects of the lithium market. It's important to note that while the demand for lithium is rising, various factors, including supply chain dynamics, technological developments, and government policies, can influence the overall trajectory of the lithium market.

for more Details: https://www.aceinvestors.com.au/

[colitcomedia]

Calima Energy Limited, an Australian oil and gas exploration and production company, is committed to responsible development and the maximization of shareholder value. Under the astute leadership of Chairman Glen Whiddon, the company is strategically focused on optimizing asset valuation and achieving operational efficiencies. This article delves into the insights of Calima Energy Limited, sheds light on Glen Whiddon's extensive experience, and explores the company's plans to enhance its position in the energy sector.

Glen Whiddon: A Seasoned Professional in Investment Management

As the Principal and Founder of Lagral, a family company specializing in investment management activities, Glen Whiddon brings a wealth of experience to his role as Chairman of Calima Energy Limited. With his diverse background in executive leadership roles and expertise in the mining, energy, and property sectors, Whiddon is at the forefront of driving Calima Energy towards maximizing shareholder value.

Maximizing Shareholder Value: Distributions and Share Buy-Back

Calima Energy Limited is committed to delivering value to its shareholders. The company plans to execute its second distribution of AUD 3 million to shareholders, with the aim of increasing the frequency of distributions in the future, subject to market conditions and commodity prices. Furthermore, Calima Energy may restart a share buy-back program, prioritizing continuous delivery of distributions to supportive shareholders.

Optimizing Drilling and Operational Expenses

In the face of increased capital and operating costs, Calima Energy Limited has devised plans to optimize drilling and operational expenses. By strategically reducing activity during the Canadian winter and standardizing operations, the company aims to improve efficiencies and achieve greater returns on investment in future drilling programs. These measures are part of the broader strategy to enhance asset valuation and drive sustainable growth.

Investor Outlook and Financial Performance

Based on the positive response received, Calima Energy anticipates potential inquiries and proposals from external parties regarding the acquisition or utilization of its assets. The company's forecasted Q2 production remains on track, with an average of around 4,125 barrels of oil equivalent per day (BOE/D). Furthermore, Calima Energy expects to generate approximately AUD 7.5 million in free cash flow for the quarter. With a current share price of AUD 0.094 per share, a 52-week range of AUD 0.093 – AUD 0.175, and a market capitalization of AUD 57.6 million, Calima Energy is poised for success.

Calima Energy: Positioned for Success in Western Canada

Calima Energy Limited is a prominent player in Western Canada's energy sector. The company generates stable production from its Thorsby and Brooks assets, primarily focusing on conventional oil and gas. With a low decline rate of approximately 65%, Calima Energy ensures consistent performance. Moreover, the company holds over 34,000 acres of Montney rights in the "liquids-rich" fairway, positioning itself to capitalize on the potential of the Montney formation and leverage the growing demand for liquid-rich natural gas in both domestic and global markets.

Conclusion

Led by Chairman Glen Whiddon, Calima Energy Limited is dedicated to maximizing shareholder value through responsible oil and gas exploration and production activities. With a strong emphasis on optimizing asset valuation, managing operational expenses, and exploring potential asset sales, the company aims to achieve sustained growth and create value for its stakeholders. As investors consider their options, it is crucial to conduct thorough research and seek advice from financial advisors before making investment decisions.

[hughungrybear]

People I wanna know better

Tagged once again by @imlivingformyselfdontmindme.

Last song?

It's Australia Day and my family went on a road trip today. However, I'm pretty sure the last song I heard from my BIL's playlist whilst driving is this song (followed by a short discussion on all the reasons why Joe Jonas sucks 😆)

Favourite colour?

Poppy red 😊

Currently watching?

Since changing jobs, I found that I don't have as much time (and energy) to watch TV (or something similar) as I used to. However, I am not missing any episodes of these Thai series.

Cherry Magic TH

Last Twilight

The Sign

[Edit to add] Cooking Crush

I also used to watch Pit Babe but stopped at Episode 4. I might resume watching this in February, though.

Last movie?

I haven't gone to watch a proper movie in the theatre since the pandemic. This movie I watched on a plane whilst travelling abroad.

Sweet/Spicy/Savory?

Spicy and Savoury. I am Asian. You need to give me some heat and plenty of umami 😅

Relationship status?

An auntie-corn. (It's like the regular single auntie, but more awesome lol)

Current obsessions?

I said it before, but I am currently obsessed with learning how the share market works. Reading all kinds of materials relating to this subject is also one of the reasons why I spend less time watching Thai dramas. I just want to get rich faster🤣🤣🤣

Last thing you googled?

Prices of specific stocks in ASX to see if I can afford them 😅

Selfie or another pic you took?

I also happened to love Salvador Dali's art. Fortunately, there is a winery in South Australia that features his amazing works (sculptures) like this one:

I do hope I am not annoying people by constantly tagging them 😅 @lost-my-sanity1, @telomeke, @dribs-and-drabbles, @dimplesandfierceeyes, @sparklyeyedhimbo, @waitmyturtles, and anyone who would like to answer these questions.

[inveswithdavid]

Unveiling Opportunities TSX Energy Stocks with a Focus on TSX:TRP

The energy sector on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) is a dynamic and ever-evolving landscape, offering investors a plethora of opportunities amidst shifting market dynamics and global energy transitions. Among the standout performers in this sector, TransCanada Corporation (TSX:TRP) stands tall as a beacon of stability, growth potential, and dividend reliability.

Understanding TSX Energy Stocks

TSX energy stocks encompass companies involved in the exploration, production, transportation, and distribution of energy resources, including oil, natural gas, renewable energy, and related infrastructure. As Canada's energy sector continues to play a pivotal role in the global energy landscape, TSX energy stocks present compelling investment options for both domestic and international investors.

TransCanada Corporation (TSX:TRP)

TransCanada Corporation, known as TC Energy, is a leading North American energy infrastructure company with a diversified portfolio of assets spanning pipelines, natural gas storage, and power generation facilities. With a market capitalization of billions, TC Energy boasts a robust track record of operational excellence, strategic investments, and shareholder value creation.

Key Highlights of TC Energy:

1. Pipeline Network: TC Energy operates a vast network of pipelines that transport crude oil, natural gas, and other energy products across North America. With strategic assets connecting key production areas to major markets, TC Energy plays a crucial role in facilitating the efficient and reliable transportation of energy resources.

2. Renewable Energy Investments: In response to the growing demand for clean energy solutions, TC Energy has been expanding its presence in the renewable energy sector. The company has invested in wind, solar, and hydroelectric projects, positioning itself as a leader in the transition towards a low-carbon economy.

3. Stable Dividend Payments: TC Energy is renowned for its commitment to shareholder returns, exemplified by its consistent dividend payments and dividend growth over the years. With a focus on financial discipline and capital allocation, TC Energy provides investors with a reliable income stream and long-term value appreciation potential.

TransCanada Corporation (TSX:TRP) in Focus

As one of the premier energy infrastructure companies on the TSX, TransCanada Corporation (TSX:TRP) exemplifies the qualities that investors seek in energy stocks:

Stability: TC Energy's diversified asset portfolio and long-term contracts provide a stable revenue stream, mitigating risks associated with commodity price fluctuations and market volatility.

Growth Potential: With ongoing investments in expansion projects and renewable energy initiatives, TC Energy is well-positioned to capitalize on growth opportunities in the evolving energy landscape.

Dividend Reliability: TC Energy's track record of dividend payments and dividend growth reflects its strong financial position and commitment to delivering value to shareholders.

Conclusion

In conclusion, TSX energy stocks offer investors a gateway to participate in Canada's energy industry's growth and evolution. With companies like TransCanada Corporation (TSX:TRP) leading the charge, investors can harness the potential for stable income, growth, and long-term value creation. As the energy sector continues to adapt to changing market dynamics and environmental considerations, prudent investment in TSX energy stocks can position investors for sustainable returns and contribute to a diversified investment portfolio.

[trishastockmind]

Understand Australian Consumer Spending Trends and Potential ASX Investment Opportunities 

Australian household spending trends, as reported by Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) for May, reveal nuances in sectoral performance and potential investment opportunities on the ASX. Understanding these insights provides a strategic approach for investors navigating the current economic landscape. 

Insights from CBA's Monthly Household Spending Report 

The latest report of this ASX financial stock highlighted a 1.1% increase in household spending in May, following a previous decline in April. Despite this uptick, the overall consumer environment remains subdued, with only marginal average growth observed since the beginning of the year. This cautious consumer sentiment underscores the uneven recovery across different sectors of the economy. 

Strong Performing Sectors Driving Growth 

Several sectors exhibited robust growth in May, signaling resilience and potential investment prospects. Household goods led with a 2.3% increase, followed by food and beverage goods at 1.8%, hospitality at 1.7%, and transport at 1.3%. These sectors rebounded strongly from a weaker performance in April, reflecting pent-up consumer demand and economic recovery efforts. 

Investors keen on benefiting from these trends may consider ASX-listed companies such as JB Hi-Fi Ltd (ASX: JBH), Harvey Norman Holdings Limited (ASX: HVN), Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES), Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL), Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW), and Metcash Ltd (ASX: MTS) within the retail and consumer goods sectors. 

Identifying Opportunities in Growth Sectors 

Beyond retail, sectors like communication, digital services, recreation, insurance, household services, and health also saw positive growth in May. Companies like Qantas Airways Limited (ASX: QAN), Transurban Group (ASX: TCL), Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS), Insurance Australia Group Ltd (ASX: IAG), and Suncorp Group Ltd (ASX: SUN) may benefit from increased consumer spending in these areas. 

Challenges in Declining Sectors 

Conversely, motor vehicles, utilities, and education experienced declines in spending during the same period. ASX-listed companies such as Eagers Automotive Ltd (ASX: APE), AGL Energy Limited (ASX: AGL), and Origin Energy Ltd (ASX: ORG) could face challenges in the short term due to subdued consumer demand within their respective sectors. 

Future Outlook and Investment Strategy 

Despite the uptick in May, CBA's senior economist Belinda Allen noted the persistent softness in the consumer environment. This cautious outlook suggests a selective approach to investments, focusing on companies with strong fundamentals, market leadership, and resilience to economic fluctuations. 

Investors should monitor ongoing consumer spending trends, economic policies, and global market dynamics to make informed investment decisions. Companies demonstrating the ability to adapt to changing consumer behaviors and economic conditions are likely to outperform in the long term. 

Navigating Australian household spending trends provides valuable insights into sectoral performance and investment opportunities on the ASX. While certain sectors show resilience and growth potential, others face challenges amid economic uncertainties. By strategically evaluating companies based on their performance, market position, and sectoral dynamics, investors can build a diversified portfolio positioned for long-term growth and stability. 

[the-art-of-investing-in-stocks]

Unlocking Investment Potential: Exploring the BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) Share Price as a Prime ASX Blue Chip Opportunity

For savvy investors seeking a robust addition to their portfolio on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX), the BHP Group Ltd emerges as a compelling blue-chip contender. Renowned for its resilience and stability, the BHP share price has garnered attention as a potential gem in the competitive landscape of ASX-listed stocks.

A Blue-Chip Titan:

BHP Group Ltd, a global resources company, stands tall as one of ASX's blue-chip titans. With a diversified portfolio spanning mining, oil and gas, and metallurgical coal, ASX BHP has established itself as a stalwart in the market. The company's market capitalization, coupled with its consistent track record, positions it as an attractive choice for investors seeking stability and long-term growth.

Robust Financial Performance:

The BHP share price has not only weathered market fluctuations but has also demonstrated a robust financial performance. The company's revenue streams from various sectors within the resources industry contribute to a resilient financial foundation. Investors often find comfort in the consistent earnings and dividend payouts associated with BHP, making it an appealing option for those prioritizing stability in their investment strategy.

Global Presence and Market Leadership:

BHP's extensive global presence and market leadership play a pivotal role in its appeal to investors. The company's operations span across multiple continents, allowing it to capitalize on diverse market trends and opportunities. As a leader in the resources sector, BHP's influence extends beyond the ASX, providing investors with exposure to global economic dynamics.

Commodity Resilience:

The performance of BHP shares is intricately tied to the resilience of commodities, and the company has adeptly navigated the complexities of this market. With a focus on essential resources such as iron ore, copper, and petroleum, BHP is strategically positioned to benefit from sustained demand. The company's ability to adapt to changing commodity prices and market dynamics adds an element of stability to its share price.

Sustainable Practices and ESG Commitment:

In an era where environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations are integral to investment decisions, BHP's commitment to sustainable practices stands out. The company prioritizes responsible resource development and environmental stewardship. Investors aligning with ESG principles often find BHP's dedication to sustainability a positive aspect when evaluating the stock.

Technological Advancements and Innovation:

BHP's proactive approach to technological advancements and innovation contributes to its competitiveness in the market. The company continually invests in cutting-edge technologies to enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and minimize its environmental impact. This commitment to innovation positions BHP as a forward-thinking player in the resources industry.

Considerations for Investors:

While the BHP Group Ltd share price offers a range of enticing attributes, prudent investors should conduct thorough research and consider their individual risk tolerance and investment goals. Like any investment, BHP shares are not immune to market fluctuations, and potential investors should stay informed about global economic trends and commodity price dynamics.

Final Thoughts:

As investors navigate the ASX in search of a blue-chip gem, the BHP Group Ltd share price emerges as a contender worth exploring. With its global presence, financial resilience, commitment to sustainability, and leadership in the resources sector, BHP presents itself as an intriguing opportunity for those seeking stability and growth in their investment portfolios.

Also, check our news section

[sublimeobservationarcade]

Coalition Responsible For Consulting Crisis

10 years of Liberal/National federal governments stripped the public service of 15, 000 jobs and opened the door for consultants PwC, KPMG, EY, and Deloitte to feast on government contracts to the tune of billions of dollars. Coalition responsible for consulting crisis, as insider mates shuffle jobs between government and the big 4 consultancy/auditing firms to ensure the flow of business and big bucks. Four Corners has revealed the incestuous relationships in the Department of Defence and KPMG via whistleblowers telling their story about what has been going on. Pigs with snouts in the trough comes to mind as an analogy about what has been occurring. “It has been the Coalition's official benchmark for "responsible management" since 2015; a target that prime ministers Malcolm Turnbull and Scott Morrison also pursued. More than 15,000 government jobs were abolished as a result.” - (https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-05-13/has-federal-budget-2021-ended-coalition-war-on-public-servants/100133980) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pduOqZPnqVc

Dishonest & Dodgy Coalition Governments Dealing Billions To Consultants

The lack of transparency is a major issue and questions have to be asked whether this was a deliberate strategy by the Coalition in government. Outsourcing, what has always been the work of government through the public service, means that these consulting firms are not scrutinised to the level government departments usually are. The Abbott, Turnbull, and Morrison governments moved much of their work of government to these private consulting firms. Public funds normally allocated to the trusted public service were diverted to these private companies. The PwC tax scandal has shown clearly that these firms are not to be trusted with sensitive and confidential government information.

“Former KPMG partner urges royal commission into consulting industry following damning report into PwC scandal” - (https://www.theguardian.com/business/2023/jul/06/former-kpmg-partner-urges-royal-commission-into-consulting-industry-following-damning-report-into-pwc-scandal) “PwC Australia has sacked eight partners, including its former CEO Tom Seymour, over their direct involvement in or knowledge of the tax leak scandal which has engulfed the consulting firm.” - (https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-07-03/asx-markets-business-live-news-july-3/102553582)

Neoliberal Coalition Oversees Erosion Of Ethics  & Professional Standards

Overcharging and extending contracts is rife in the consulting sector and via these government contracts they have gone to town. Tens of billions of dollars have been siphoned off into the hands of these firms and their insider mates of the Coalition. Scott Morrison has a lot of questions to answer re-Robodebt and PwC was involved in this illegal debacle as well. It is time that these people were brought to justice and prosecuted. The erosion of ethics and professional standards has been overseen by the Coalition in power. Screwing the taxpayer out of money and feathering the nest of private individuals has been happening on a very large scale. “Collins had breached a series of confidentiality agreements made with federal Treasury and the Board of Taxation that gave him access to various consultative forums as a senior partner in the local branch of a global accounting firm. Information obtained during those processes was used to brief local and international tax partners or staff on what the government was doing in specific areas of taxation. It was publicly known that Collins had shared knowledge that he should not have shared, as was the fact that his former firm, PricewaterhouseCoopers (now PwC), was given a disciplinary penalty that required it to tighten up training and procedures.” (https://www.themandarin.com.au/219292-damning-emails-reveal-former-pwc-peter-collins-multiple-breaches/

Liberal Vision Of Australia All About Wealth At Any Cost For The Few These people at the heart of these big 4 consultancy firms have earned millions of dollars. They live in big houses in exclusive suburbs worth millions of dollars, and they drive very smart cars. Insider trading is illegal and yet these accountants have trod an inside track thanks to their Coalition mates in power. A decade of Coalition governments has overseen the massive expansion of private consultants taking over the public service. Liberals screwing the Australian people for their own advantage. Profits and avoiding public scrutiny by Abbott, Turnbull, and Morrison are at the heart of this betrayal of trust. “The previous Coalition government spent $20.8bn outsourcing more than a third of public service operations, an audit has found. The federal government released the findings of the Australian public service audit of employment on Saturday, which examined the hiring practices and associated costs of 112 public service agencies, excluding the CSIRO, Australian Broadcasting Corporation, and parliamentary departments. It found the equivalent of nearly 54,000 full-time staff were employed as consultants or service providers for the federal government during the 2021-2022 financial year – the equivalent of 37% of the 144,300-employee public service.” - (Stephanie Convery, The Guardian, 6 May 2023) Conservative voters in Australia are hoodwinked into voting for the Coalition on the basis of socially conservative policies. Meanwhile, we are all shafted via insider trading for their mates and plum government contracts for wealthy friends in the consultancy business. Hundreds of millions of dollars of public funds being siphoned off into the hands of these dubious individuals. Donald Trump and the Republicans have written the modern rule book for this grifting behaviour in government in recent times. Trump is a hero for these conservatives combining billion dollar grift with authoritarian power to keep any dissenting voices in check. Look at the list of questionable activities undertaken during the Abbott, Turnbull, and Morrison governments. - Climate change and global warming – the Coalition has put back Australia at least a couple of decades via their inaction and manipulation of government policies in this space. - Consultancy Crisis/Gutting the Public Service – tens of billions of dollars going into private hands via overcharging, wasteful practices, and neutering public scrutiny and the voice of the public service. - Robodebt – the Robodebt scheme was cooked up by Scott Morrison and was illegal, but put into practice anyway. 500, 000 Australians were wrongly accused of owing large amounts of money to the government. People killed themselves in despair over this! A settled class action has cost taxpayers $1.6 billion so far. A Royal Commission was scathing in its condemnation and recommendations for further prosecution against those administering the scheme. Scott Morrison, of course, denies any wrong doing and responsibility for something he instigated. - Sports Rorts – pork barrelling taken to another level, as Coalition ministers direct spending to swing voter seats in a bid to shore up support for their electoral cause. Australians in Labor seats miss out on investment into their infrastructure because of where they reside and the political bellwether situation. - Uluru Statement from the Heart – 10 years of Coalition government denied this call from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians for a place at the big table. Whenever Liberal/National governments come to power they invariably dismantle and defund Indigenous bodies and programs, which were established by Labor governments to close the gap. Whether it is politics over concern for First Nations’ people or just out and out racism the end result is the same. Is it any wonder that First Nations’ Australians want a Voice to Parliament written into the Constitution. Peter Dutton is leading the No vote against the Voice in the referendum. The Nationals also oppose it. Mean spirited, racist, and, generally, lacking compassion are all ways to describe this behaviour. - Housing Crisis - Where has all the social housing in Australia gone? Neoliberal economic policies have given everything over to the private sector and the profit motive. Needy and vulnerable? Tough luck, you're stuffed in Oz these days. - Corporate Profits Driving Inflation - A concentration of corporate power via takeovers and mergers means that price setting is rife in Australia. Bugger all competition (where and what has the ACCC been up to?) in the banking sector, supermarkets, audit firms, airlines, real estate, mining, energy sector, and everywhere you seek to do business is an oligopoly. Robert Sudha Hamilton is the author of Money Matters: Navigating Credit, Debt & Financial Freedom ©WordsForWeb

Read the full article

[skrillnetworkblog]

📊 ASX Market Movers: Highlights of the Day

🔑 Key Headlines:

EML Payments (+22.6%): Surges on positive trading update.

Gentrack (+18.7%): Celebrates record-breaking FY24 results.

Resimac (+4.4%): Gains on share buyback news.

Lindian Resources (-13.3%): Drops amid legal claim concerns.

🚀 Top Performers

🌟 EML Payments: Leading the Rally

Quarter Highlights: 12% revenue growth ($48.8M) & 46% EBITDA increase ($11.6M).

Strategic Goal: Targeting 35% EBITDA margins by FY28.

Why it Matters: Operational efficiency and a clear roadmap are boosting investor confidence.

🔧 Gentrack Group: Resilience in Action

FY24 Performance: Revenue up by 25.5% ($213.2M); EBITDA steady despite cost pressures.

Growth Vision: Confident in achieving 15% CAGR over the mid-term.

Investor Takeaway: Demonstrates scalability and adaptability amidst challenges.

💰 Resimac Group: Buyback Optimism

Announcement: Up to 10M shares buyback to reflect undervalued assets.

Impact: Signals financial stability and enhances shareholder confidence.

🔻 Notable Decliner

⚖️ Lindian Resources: Legal Concerns Weigh Heavy

Share Drop: -13.3% after legal claim details surface.

Context: Dispute with Deep Blue Sea Limited; company disputes validity.

Investor Sentiment: Market awaits clarity on the claim.

📉 Sector Overview

🏦 Banks Retreat

Big Four Losses: CBA (-2.5%), NAB (-1.6%), ANZ (-1.4%), Westpac (-1.2%).

Impact: Financial sector pulls down the broader market.

🪙 Gold Miners Hit

Gold Price Plunge: -3.2%, largest drop since June.

Biggest Declines: Pantoro (-6.7%), Spartan Resources (-6.4%), Ora Banda (-4.5%).

🌐 Market Insights

All Technology Index: Up by 0.31%, buoyed by Gentrack and Life360.

Global Markets: Dow Jones (+0.99%), Hang Seng (-0.41%).

Commodities: Brent Crude (+0.25%), Copper (-0.50%).

💡 Investor Takeaway

Bright Spots: Operational gains (EML, Gentrack) and shareholder-focused moves (Resimac) lead optimism.

Challenges: Legal uncertainties and falling commodity prices keep markets cautious.

Looking Ahead: Strategic developments and cost efficiencies are the keys to navigating market volatility.

Visit - https://www.skrillnetwork.com/asx-highlights-eml-payments-gentrack-and-resimac-in-focus

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Australia Shares Set to Move on From Record

Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 looks set to rise at the open, moving on from a record after U.S. equities provided a positive lead at the end of last week.