Insights

This week we look at Virgin, ANZ, Ansell and JB Hi-Fi.

International investing, considering bonds and the real cost of property.

CBA's $5bn capital raising does not come as a surprise; however investors will be anxious about its impact on the banking sector this morning. A key issue for the short term will be the extent to which other bank stocks might be sold to make way for an increased allocation to CBA in investor portfolios.

Investors are looking at welcome relief in trading day as seller exhaustion gives way to a strong buying impulse. The spark was a 4% rally in mainland China markets yesterday. Poor trade data over the weekend has fired speculation of further support from the PBoC, driving metals and energy markets higher, and snapping the back of seven straight trading days of share market selling.

Don't miss Alan Kohler's interview with CBA boss Ian Narev, while CSL CFO Gordon Naylor will answer your questions.

The Income First portfolio launches today with five stocks, including two banks that look more compelling than their peers.

After a strong run, several new contracts show the IT services company is still moving in the right direction.

Several LICs focus on large-cap Australian stocks, but only one looks cheap.

As earnings season continues, it's a good time to consider buying a number of our international stock picks.

As the US reporting season draws to a close the Australian season gets into full swing this week. Although macro factors such as a likely US rate rise, poor China data and weaker commodity prices will weigh initially, investor focus is likely to narrow on the primary evidence of corporate health - earnings reports.

This morning's market open is likely to be characterised by trader caution ahead of potentially significant news events; a weak lead form overseas markets and ongoing reaction to ANZ's capital raising.

Stunningly strong readings on services and composite PMIs drove European shares higher overnight despite some disappointment with continental retail sales. However, investor enthusiasm in the Asia Pacific region today may be tempered by lower metals prices and a sour report from Walt Disney that weighed on media stocks and US markets.

It's almost a Ponzi scheme... bank stocks can't actually afford their dividend payouts.

A new long-term investing report reveals the crucial role of tax and inflation - even at low rates - on the success of different asset classes.

The high profile regulatory action on investor lending will have little material impact on the residential property market.

From overseas, it appears a correction looms for Australian shares and bonds as China slows down.