Are these ASX stocks hitting 52-week highs a buy, hold, or sell?

Amidst broader market volatility in 2026, there have been ASX 200 stocks that have hit 52-week highs recently. 

In 2026 alone: 

• Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW) shares are up 25% to $36.78
• Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG) shares have risen nearly 33% to $238.37
• Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS) have lifted 20% to $5.32

When stocks roar to new highs, it can be difficult for investors to pinpoint fair value. 

Those who have owned the shares might be considering taking their profits and seeking more opportunities elsewhere. 

Those on the outside looking in might be wondering if there is any more upside. 

Let’s look at what’s pushing these shares to 52-week highs and how experts are viewing them. 

Woolworths

Woolworths holds the largest market share in the Australian supermarket industry. 

This dominance puts it firmly in the defensive sector.

Put simply, people still need the essential goods and services Woolworths provides regardless of economic conditions. 

Investors often push into defensive positions amid global economic, political unrest, or high inflation environments. 

This year, consumers have dealt with all three, which has led to a strong performance from Woolworths shares. 

Today, it is trading at $36.80 per share, just below 52-week highs. 

So, is there any further upside?

According to 15 analyst forecasts via TradingView, it is hovering right around fair value. 

However, it’s worth noting that if inflation and interest rates continue to rise, it may continue to benefit as a defensive option. 

Macquarie

Macquarie provides banking, financial, advisory, investment, and fund management services across 34 markets globally.

It is charging even higher today, hitting a fresh 52-week high around $239. 

This growth has been driven by strong financial results and good market momentum. 

Based on 13 analyst ratings via TradingView, Macquarie Group shares are also close to fair value. 

Of these forecasts, the lowest is just 8% lower than current levels, while the highest is $270 per share. 

If they were to reach that price, it would be a further 13% rise. 

Telstra

Telstra shares have benefited from the same defensive attributes as previously discussed for Woolworths. 

It is Australia’s largest and longest-running provider of telecommunications and information products and services. 

This means its earnings are largely tied to essential services. 

It also has a reputation as one of Australia’s most reliable dividend shares.

Today, shares are trading at approximately $5.33 each, just below recent 52-week highs. 

Based on 13 analyst ratings on TradingView, there is limited further upside, with the average price target at $5.26. 

The post Are these ASX stocks hitting 52-week highs a buy, hold, or sell? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• 3 ASX 200 titans charging to new one-year-plus highs today
• Why I’d buy these ASX 200 stocks if I were a beginner
• Macquarie shares soar 21% to a 52-week high: Buy, sell or hold?
• How to invest $300 a month in Australian shares to target a $50,000 annual second income
• The ASX shares I’d buy for passive income in April and beyond

Motley Fool contributor Aaron Bell has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Macquarie Group. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Macquarie Group, Telstra Group, and Woolworths Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.