Highlights
- MQG shows modest decline from the start of 2025
- COL shares rebound strongly from 52-week lows
- Both stocks offer insights via dividend yield comparison
As market dynamics shift in 2025, two major players on the ASX — Macquarie Group Ltd and Coles Group Ltd — are drawing attention for different reasons. One presents a story of resilience and diversified operations, while the other reflects the stability of a century-old retail brand in recovery mode.
Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX:MQG): A Unique Financial Institution
Since the beginning of 2025, the share price of Macquarie Group (MQG) has seen a dip of approximately 4.0%. Founded in 1969, Macquarie has grown into a multinational investment bank and financial services provider. It stands apart from traditional Australian banks due to its dual role — operating as a standard bank while also managing a global portfolio that spans infrastructure, real estate, agriculture, commodities, and equities.
Despite recent price pressures, Macquarie maintains a robust operational track record with over 55 years of uninterrupted profitability. Its focus on long-term value creation and diversification makes it a distinctive player in the financial sector.
From a valuation perspective, MQG shares currently provide a dividend yield of around 3.01%. This is slightly below their 5-year average of 3.16%, suggesting the payout may be lower than historical norms. A closer look reveals that the latest annual dividend was also below the three-year average, reflecting a recent reduction in distributions.
Coles Group Ltd (ASX:COL): A Rebound from Lows
Coles Group (COL), a cornerstone of Australia’s retail landscape since 1914, is showing signs of recovery. The COL share price is now trading 32.0% above its 52-week low. With a strong presence in grocery retail, liquor, convenience, and loyalty programs, Coles remains a household name for Australian consumers.
The company was previously part of Wesfarmers before it was demerged and listed independently in 2018. Its operations extend beyond supermarkets, incorporating well-known brands like Liquorland, Vintage Cellars, and Coles Express, along with the popular Flybuys program.
Dividend-focused investors may find the COL yield appealing, currently sitting around 3.06%, although still below the 5-year average of 3.76%. This aligns with a broader trend across the market, where yields are recalibrating in response to earnings dynamics and economic conditions.
While Macquarie Group offers exposure to financial innovation and global investments, Coles presents a stable retail business undergoing positive momentum from past lows. Both stocks deliver useful perspectives through the lens of dividend yields and market positioning, offering a balanced view for those monitoring performance within the ASX 200.