How might rising mortgage stress affect ASX-listed banking and real estate stocks?

Yes, elevated mortgage stress can significantly influence ASX-listed companies, particularly banks like CBA (ASX: CBA), Westpac (ASX: WBC), and NAB (ASX: NAB). Higher default risk or delayed repayments tend to raise provisioning levels, which may pressure profit margins. It can also lead to more conservative lending practices, slowing credit growth.

Are high dividend yield stocks still a good investment during interest rate uncertainty in 2025?

High yields can be tempting, but beware of dividend traps—companies whose yields are inflated due to a falling stock price from fundamental weakness. Always check the payout ratio, cash flow, and debt levels. In 2025, some REITs and telecoms are struggling to maintain dividends due to refinancing costs at higher interest rates.

Stick with companies that have increased dividends for 10+ years (Dividend Aristocrats). Think Johnson & Johnson (JNJ), Coca-Cola (KO), or Procter & Gamble (PG).

Is uranium the next big opportunity on the ASX?

Absolutely. Uranium is gaining significant traction due to global policy shifts and increasing demand. For instance, the U.S. under President Trump has introduced executive orders to fast-track reactor licensing and promote uranium mining, which has already boosted uranium prices and related energy stocks.

Are business services stocks on the ASX a good investment in 2025 given recent market trends?

I’ve been holding a position in SG Fleet Group (ASX: SGF) since late 2024 and it’s been outperforming. Their fleet leasing and management services are in high demand with corporate clients scaling up post-COVID. I believe business services are a safer bet this year compared to volatile mining or fintech plays.

Should I Buy Virgin Australia Shares in the Upcoming ASX IPO?

From a day trading perspective, the IPO's timing is intriguing. The ASX 200 has been approaching record highs, and Virgin's return could attract substantial attention. However, it's essential to consider potential risks, such as thin profit margins and the cyclical nature of the airline industry. If consumer demand weakens, it could impact the stock's performance. 

With the RBA cutting rates in 2025, are ASX mortgage stocks like CBA and ANZ still a good buy, or are they overvalued now?

Adding to the discussion, it's worth noting that the Reserve Bank of Australia is expected to implement multiple rate cuts in 2025, which could impact bank margins. While lower rates might stimulate loan demand, they can also compress net interest margins, affecting profitability. Investors should weigh these factors when considering investments in mortgage stocks like CBA and ANZ.

Is the surge in battery metals IPOs on the ASX a long-term shift or just hype?

Battery metals are hot right now, but we’ve seen commodity cycles before. If EV adoption slows or supply catches up quickly, some of these IPOs could struggle. That said, the shift to renewable energy and electric transport seems irreversible, so the bigger players with solid projects might be here to stay.

Is Virgin Australia's upcoming IPO a good investment opportunity, or are there significant risks that investors should be aware of?

Virgin Australia's IPO is generating buzz as it's the largest in Australia this year, aiming to raise A$685 million at A$2.90 per share, valuing the company at approximately A$2.3 billion. Bain Capital is reducing its stake from 70% to 39.4%, while Qatar Airways retains its 23% share. The airline has streamlined operations, focusing on profit-generating routes and recording A$439 million in underlying half-year earnings. With a 34.4% domestic market share, just behind Qantas, and plans to resume long-haul flights via its Qatar partnership, the company seems poised for growth.

Are Dividend Stocks Still Worth It in 2025?

Dividend reliability is more critical than yield right now. A flashy high dividend yield might look appealing, but it could signal trouble ahead. Look for dividend aristocrats—companies that have increased dividends for many consecutive years.

Also, consider global dividend stocks. Some international companies, particularly in Europe, are offering attractive yields with solid fundamentals.

Marin Katusa on Lithium: Can the Sector Handle an 80% Price Crash Amid a 700% Demand Surge?

Marin Katusa highlights a real dilemma in the lithium market — collapsing prices despite soaring demand forecasts. The recent price drop stems from oversupply and short-term demand softness, but long-term projections remain strong due to EV growth and energy storage needs. This disconnect could pressure high-cost producers and delay new projects, risking future shortages. The sector faces a tough balancing act between sustaining supply and navigating volatile pricing.

Has Anyone Used Kalkine’s Premium Research? What Was Your Experience?

I tried their premium service for 3 months last year. Honestly, it's a mixed bag - here's the real deal:

The good stuff first:

• Their sector reports are legitimately thorough, especially for mining and banking stocks

• I liked how they break down complex financials into plain English - saved me hours of Googling terms

• The dividend stock coverage was more comprehensive than I expected

But fair warning:

• Their "buy" recommendations didn't always pan out for me (but whose does, right?)

• The mobile app needs work - I ended up mostly using desktop

• It's pricey if you're just starting out