Were you holding these 5 big share market fallers last week?

Bargains emerging in Mayne Pharma Group Ltd (ASX:MYX) and James Hardie Industries plc (ASX:JHX)

| More on:
a woman

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

Last week on the Australian stock market was a story of volatility as a result of ongoing unease between the US and North Korea coupled with some big profit announcements and disappointments.

The S&P/ASX 200 (INDEXASX: XJO) fell on three out of five days to end the week down 0.68% lower and took some big names with it!

Shares in $1 billion pharmaceutical company Mayne Pharma Group Ltd (ASX: MYX) sunk 10% towards a 1-year low following a disappointing trading update that pointed to 2018 being a tough year for them.

Wagering group Tabcorp Holdings Limited (ASX: TAH) shares dropped 9.5% over the week after the group announced a loss of $20m for the previously financial year, compared to a $130m profit in the year before, and further stories emerged about difficulties the company may have in pulling off its proposed takeover of Tatts Group Limited (ASX: TTS).

Takeover target Vocus Group Ltd (ASX: VOC) saw a strange 8% fall in its share price despite no significant news coming from the company, however investors may be getting nervous leading into the full year results due on August 23.

Housing products maker James Hardie Industries plc (ASX: JHX) shares fell 7% after the company reported that it expected earnings to rise in the current financial year, but not as much as analysts were predicting. As silly as it sounds, that sent the share price significantly lower due to the US$17m difference between guesstimates.

Similarly, shares in SKYCITY Entertainment Group Limited-Ord (ASX: SKC) sunk further towards a 1-year low as they dropped another 7% to $3.57 as the group announced a full year result that contained revenue and profit that fell 7.2% and 69.2% respectively.

Now more than ever, with value and consistency so hard to find, investors need to have laser-like focus on companies that have sustainable competitive advantages so they can continue to grow profits.

Motley Fool contributor Andrew Mudie has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia owns shares of Vocus Communications Limited. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Bruce Jackson.

More on ⏸️ Investing

A white and black robot in the form of a human being stands in front of a green graphic holding a laptop and discussing robotics and automation ASX shares
Technology Shares

Joining the revolution: How I'd invest in ASX AI shares right now

Advances in artificial intelligence (AI) could usher in a new industrial revolution. Here’s how you can invest in it.

Read more »

Close up of baby looking puzzled
Retail Shares

What has happened to the Baby Bunting (ASX:BBN) share price this year?

It's been a volatile year so far for the Aussie nursery retailer. We take a closer look

Read more »

woman holds sign saying 'we need change' at climate change protest
ETFs

3 ASX ETFs that invest in companies fighting climate change

If you want to shift some of your investments into more ethical companies, exchange-traded funds can offer a good option

Read more »

a jewellery store attendant stands at a cabinet displaying opulent necklaces and earrings featuring diamonds and precious stones.
⏸️ Investing

The Michael Hill (ASX: MHJ) share price poised for growth

Investors will be keeping an eye on the Michael Hill International Limited (ASX: MHJ) share price today. The keen interest…

Read more »

ASX shares buy unstoppable asx share price represented by man in superman cape pointing skyward
⏸️ Investing

The Atomos (ASX:AMS) share price is up 15% in a week

The Atomos (ASX: AMS) share price has surged 15% this week. Let's look at what's ahead as the company build…

Read more »

Two people in suits arm wrestle on a black and white chess board.
Retail Shares

How does the Temple & Webster (ASX:TPW) share price stack up against Nick Scali (ASX:NCK)?

How does the Temple & Webster (ASX: TPW) share price stack up against rival furniture retailer Nick Scali Limited (ASX:…

Read more »

A medical researcher works on a bichip, indicating share price movement in ASX tech companies
Healthcare Shares

The Aroa (ASX:ARX) share price has surged 60% since its IPO

The Aroa (ASX:ARX) share price has surged 60% since the Polynovo (ASX: PNV) competitor listed on the ASX in July.…

Read more »

asx investor daydreaming about US shares
⏸️ How to Invest

How to buy US shares from Australia right now

If you have been wondering how to buy US shares from Australia to gain exposure from the highly topical market,…

Read more »