Our look at the key election theme of franking credits topped last week's coverage alongside Platinum's plunge in first-half profit and an examination of diversification and how many shares you need to achieve it.

Investing basics: your guide to franking credits

Franking credits are back in the news - but what are they and how do they impact your investment returns?

Global equity rout weighs on Platinum Asset Management

Platinum Asset Management has booked a 27 per cent fall in first-half profit, dragged down by the global equity rout of late-2018 and a plunge in performance fees. 

How many shares do you need for a diversified portfolio?

Investing in a fund gives you immediate diversification, but those who prefer picking shares for themselves expose themselves to a greater risk of capital loss. 

Vocus retreats from NBN as first-half profit falls

Telecommunications provider Vocus Group will back away from growing its share of the consumer National Broadband Network market, describing the service as 'challenging' and 'economically unattractive'. 

Lendlease profit plunges 96pc amid $1bn impairment bill

Global construction and property powerhouse Lendlease has posted a 96pc fall in first-half earnings following a $1bn impairment bill including losses on three key motorway projects.

AHG skids to a loss after $223m writedowns

Automotive Holdings Group has skidded to a first-half loss, scrapping its dividend and cutting its guidance after a flagged $223m writedown against its struggling franchised and refrigerated logistics businesses. 

QBE back in the black amid fall in catastrophe claims

QBE shares are trading higher after the insurer climbed back into the black with a full-year profit of US$390 million ($546 million) following a drop in catastrophe claims. 

Pact Group still good value despite $320m loss

Packaging manufacturer Pact Group reported a $320m loss last week, which saw the share price plummet almost 10pc as investors baulked at the company's promise of cost savings. 

Spark Infrastructure earnings rise as tax bill looms

Spark Infrastructure has met its earnings expectations, sending shares up 2 per cent in early trade, but the utility investor warns shareholders it faces a growing tax burden.

Invocare despite fall in number of deaths

Australia's largest funeral provider InvoCare is trading more than 8 per cent higher despite a dip in revenue linked to a milder winter and effective flu vaccinations.

 

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