Category: Stock Market

Thinking in 25-year timeframes changes how you invest. Short-term noise fades into irrelevance, while strong business models, structural growth, and competitive advantages start to matter far more.

Exchange traded funds (ETFs) can be particularly powerful over these horizons, because they let investors benefit from long-term trends without needing to constantly adjust their portfolio as individual winners and losers change.

With that mindset, here are three ASX ETFs that could be well suited to a true buy-and-hold approach measured in decades rather than years.

iShares S&P 500 AUD ETF (ASX: IVV)

The first ASX ETF to consider for a 25-year horizon is the iShares S&P 500 AUD ETF.

It tracks the S&P 500 Index, which represents the largest and most influential companies in the United States. What makes this fund particularly attractive over long periods is its ability to evolve. Companies that lose relevance are removed, while new leaders are added as the economy changes. That adaptability could make it a compelling long-term core holding.

Current holdings include businesses such as Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT), Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL), and NVIDIA (NASDAQ: NVDA). These companies sit at the centre of global innovation, capital markets, and technology investment.

VanEck China New Economy ETF (ASX: CNEW)

Another ASX ETF that could reward patient investors is the VanEck China New Economy ETF.

It focuses on China’s new economy, targeting companies involved in areas such as technology, healthcare, advanced manufacturing, and domestic consumption.

The ETF holds a wide range of emerging leaders, including businesses such as Intsig Information and Shennan Circuits. Many of these companies are still early in their growth journeys and benefit from rising incomes, innovation, and domestic demand.

China’s market can be volatile, but over a 25-year period, exposure to a transforming economy could prove valuable for investors willing to tolerate short-term uncertainty. It was recently recommended by VanEck.

VanEck Morningstar International Wide Moat ETF (ASX: GOAT)

A final ASX ETF to consider for long-term investors is the VanEck Morningstar International Wide Moat ETF.

This fund provides exposure to a concentrated portfolio of international companies that have sustainable competitive advantages, or wide economic moats, that can endure for 20 years or more.

Importantly, the ETF also applies a valuation discipline, targeting companies trading below the estimate of fair value.

Holdings include businesses such as Roche Holding (SWX: ROG), GSK (LSE: GSK), and Constellation Brands (NYSE: STZ). These are established global companies with strong brands, intellectual property, or regulatory advantages that make them difficult to displace. The fund manager also recently recommended this ETF.

The post 3 ASX ETFs to buy and hold for 25 years appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• What’s the likelihood of a stock market crash before the end of 2026?
• Is this the best ASX ETF to buy to build wealth?
• Where to invest $5,000 in ASX ETFs this month
• Should you consider currency-hedged ASX ETFs?
• 10 most popular ASX ETFs on the market today

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro 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 Apple, Microsoft, Nvidia, and iShares S&P 500 ETF. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has recommended Constellation Brands, GSK, and Roche Holding AG. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Apple, Microsoft, Nvidia, and iShares S&P 500 ETF. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

Are you hunting market-beating returns for your portfolio? If you are, then it could be worth considering the ASX 200 shares in this article.

They have just been named as buys and tipped to rise very strongly from current levels. Here’s what you need to know:

Neuren Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: NEU)

Analysts at Bell Potter see significant value in this ASX 200 share at current levels.

Last week, the broker reaffirmed its buy rating on the pharmaceutical company’s shares with a $22.00 price target. Based on its current share price of $12.52, this implies potential upside of 75% for investors over the next 12 months.

While approval delays in Europe are disappointing and have hit sentiment, Bell Potter remains positive. It explains:

We have reduced the PoS assumption for Daybue EU approval and delayed first EU sales to CY27 for conservatism. We think there is still a possibility that, following reevaluation, the CHMP reverses its initial decision, however the risk to EU approval has increased considerably. Changes to CY26 forecasts are mainly from delaying the risk-adjusted milestone upon first EU sales into CY27.

NEU remains attractively valued based on the upside potential from its second drug candidate, NNZ-2591, hence we maintain our BUY. The Phase 3 trial for NNZ-2591 still has ~18 months until its readout, so investors will require patience to see through to this catalyst. Royalties from Daybue in the US alone will generate ~A$65m in CY26 income by our estimate, so NEU’s balance sheet remains very healthy regardless of the EU decision.

Pinnacle Investment Management Group Ltd (ASX: PNI)

The team at Morgans thinks this ASX 200 share could be undervalued following a pullback last week.

In response to its half year results, which fell short of expectations, the broker upgraded this investment company’s shares to a buy rating with a $23.21 price target. Based on its current share price of $17.49, this implies potential upside of 33% for investors.

While the headline result missed expectations, Morgans saw a number of positives from the release. It explains:

PNI’s 1H26 NPAT (~A$67m, -11% on the pcp) came in -4% below consensus, but it was more in line excluding one-offs (e.g. mark-to-market investment impacts). Overall, we saw the 1H26 result as compositionally stronger than the headline numbers suggested, and positively accompanied with a move-the-dial acquisition.

We reduce FY26F EPS by -7% on a softer-than-expected 1H26 “reported” result, and dilution from the PAM equity issue. Conversely, FY27F EPS rises +8% on PAM earnings benefits and a broader review of our assumptions. Our price target falls to A$23.21 (from A$26.30). We move to a BUY recommendation (previously Accumulate) with >20% upside existing to our PT.

The post These ASX 200 shares could rise 30% to 75% appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Buy, hold, sell: CSL, Pinnacle, and Telix shares
• Neuren Pharmaceuticals kicks off Phase 3 trial in rare syndrome
• Why this beaten down ASX 200 healthcare stock could rebound 66%
• Why Beach Energy, Elders, Maas, and Neuren shares are dropping today
• ASX 200 healthcare stock sinks 9% on FDA update

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro 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 Pinnacle Investment Management Group. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Pinnacle Investment Management Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

After a bruising period for Australian stocks, two beaten-up ASX shares are starting to draw fresh attention from investors.

James Hardie Industries PLC (ASX: JHX) and Aristocrat Leisure Ltd (ASX: ALL) have significantly lagged broader market gains over the past year, yet their underlying businesses are anything but broken.

James Hardie’s share price has tumbled 39% over 12 months, while Aristocrat Leisure has lost almost 32% in value.

For investors looking past the short term, I think both ASX shares deserve a fresh look.

James Hardie Industries PLC (ASX: JHX)

James Hardie’s share price has been volatile. Housing markets have slowed. Higher interest rates have cooled construction activity, and that’s weighed heavily on expectations.

Yet the $19 billion ASX share remains a global leader in fibre cement products. It dominates key markets, especially in North America. Its products are essential, not discretionary. Replacement demand remains steady even when new construction is slow.

Pricing power is a major strength. The company has pushed through price rises to offset higher costs. Scale and brand strength support margins. Over the long term, renovation activity and urban growth remain powerful tailwinds.

Risks are clear for the ASX share. A deeper housing downturn would hurt volumes. If rates stay higher for longer, recovery could be delayed. As a result, earnings may remain under pressure in the near term.

Analyst sentiment on James Hardie has improved, but remains cautious. The stock is seen as well placed to benefit as housing conditions stabilise and interest rates eventually ease.

The expectation isn’t for a sharp rebound, but for steady progress driven by strong cash flow, operating leverage and long-term demand for fibre cement products.

The average 12-month price target for the ASX share sits around $36.93, implying roughly 14% upside.

Aristocrat Leisure Ltd (ASX: ALL)

Aristocrat’s share price has also pulled back sharply in the past year. Valuations for the ASX share have reset, and concerns around gaming spend and regulation have weighed on the stock.

The business itself remains high quality. Aristocrat leads the global gaming machine market. Its digital and mobile gaming portfolio adds recurring revenue, and strong intellectual property underpins long-term earnings.

Cash flow is a key strength of the ASX gaming share. The company funds growth internally. It also returns capital through dividends and buybacks. Exposure to regulated markets provides stability.

But risks remain. Regulatory scrutiny is always a factor. Gaming machine replacement cycles can slow. Digital gaming success is never guaranteed.

Aristocrat’s disciplined capital management — including buybacks and debt reduction — supports earnings quality. Mergers and acquisitions optionality, and online game portfolio expansion could re-rate multiples if growth stabilises.

Investors looking for growth plus some defensive earnings might find the current price range appealing, but patience is key.

Bell Potter is bullish on the company’s outlook. The broker believes the ASX share is well placed to benefit from ongoing growth in digital gaming and continued investment in regulated gaming markets globally.

It recently put a buy rating and $80.00 price target on its shares. Based on its current share price of $50.79, this implies potential upside of over 55%.

The post Why these battered ASX shares deserve a second look appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• What the stronger Australian dollar means for your shares
• 3 stellar ASX growth shares that could rise 25% to 50%
• These ASX shares look cheap and could reward patient investors
• In a hot market, the undervalued Australian shares to buy now
• 3 ASX 200 shares that look like cheap buys to me

Motley Fool contributor Marc Van Dinther has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

It was another busy week for Australia’s top brokers. This has led to the release of a number of broker notes.

Three broker buy ratings that you might want to know more about are summarised below. Here’s why brokers think these ASX shares are in the buy zone:

Credit Corp Group Ltd (ASX: CCP)

According to a note out of Morgans, its analysts have retained their buy rating on this debt collector’s shares with a reduced price target of $19.35. This follows the release of Credit Corp’s first-half results, which revealed profits that were 10% short of expectations. While disappointing, Morgans feels the selloff that followed, which dragged its shares 17% lower, was overdone and has created a buying opportunity for investors. The broker highlights that at just 7x estimated FY 2027 earnings, Credit Corp’s valuation is undemanding. This is especially the case given that management has reiterated its guidance for FY 2026. The Credit Corp share price ended the week at $11.25.

NextDC Ltd (ASX: NXT)

A note out of Macquarie reveals that its analysts have retained their outperform rating and $22.30 price target on this data centre operator’s shares. Macquarie points out that Singtel and private equity firm KKR have acquired Singapore-based ST Telemedia Global Data Centres for approximately S$13.8 billion (A$15.5 billion). It estimates that this represents a 20x EV/EBITDA multiple, which is significantly greater than its 14.8x estimate for NextDC shares. In light of this, the broker continues to believe that NextDC shares are significantly undervalued at current levels, making now an opportune time for investors to open positions. The NextDC share price was fetching $12.71 at Friday’s close.

ResMed Inc. (ASX: RMD)

Another note out of Morgans reveals that its analysts have upgraded this sleep disorder treatment company’s shares to a buy rating with a $47.73 price target. Morgans was pleased with ResMed’s performance in the second quarter of FY 2026. The broker highlights that its result was a beat across the board, with double-digit revenue and earnings growth, further gross margin expansion, and solid cash generation. In response to ResMed’s operating leverage, the broker has lifted its earnings estimates and valuation slightly. And with its shares down materially from recent highs, Morgans thinks now is a good time to invest. The ResMed share price ended the week at $37.92.

The post Top brokers name 3 ASX shares to buy next week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• I would invest $50,000 in these ASX 200 shares if I were aiming to beat the market in 2026
• How could I turn $500 a month into $50,000 with ASX shares?
• Passive income: How much do you need to invest to make $500 per month?
• What the stronger Australian dollar means for your shares
• Brokers name 3 ASX shares to buy today

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in Nextdc and ResMed. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Macquarie Group and ResMed. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Macquarie Group and ResMed. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

When it comes to building a long-term portfolio, I’m a big believer in keeping things simple. I’m not trying to own everything or chase the latest theme. I just want broad exposure, sensible diversification, and funds that I can hold through different market cycles without constantly second-guessing myself.

With that mindset, these are three Vanguard exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that I think make a lot of sense for most investors. Not as the only holdings in a portfolio, but as strong building blocks you can layer other ideas around.

Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS)

If I had to pick one ETF to represent global growth outside Australia, this would be it.

The VGS ETF gives exposure to around 1,300 companies across developed markets, with heavy weightings to the US but meaningful representation across Europe and parts of Asia as well. What I like is how naturally it tilts toward the parts of the global economy that Australia simply doesn’t offer in size, particularly technology, healthcare, and global consumer brands.

This ETF doesn’t try to be clever. It just captures the long-term growth of some of the world’s most dominant businesses and lets compounding do the work. For investors who spend most of their time looking at ASX shares, the Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF is an easy way to avoid being overly concentrated in one country or one economic cycle.

Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS)

The Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF is about home-ground exposure.

The Australian market has its quirks. It’s heavy in banks, resources, and dividend-paying businesses, but that can actually be a feature rather than a flaw. The VAS ETF provides broad exposure to the ASX’s largest shares, many of which generate strong cash flows and pay reliable dividends.

What makes the Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF especially useful is how it complements international ETFs. Where global funds lean toward growth and innovation, this ETF brings income, franking credits, and exposure to sectors tied to population growth and infrastructure.

For investors who want simplicity, I think this fund could be the backbone of an Australian equity allocation without needing to pick individual shares.

Vanguard Global Value Equity Active ETF (ASX: VVLU)

This one adds a different flavour to a portfolio.

The Vanguard Global Value Equity Active ETF is actively managed, but in a very systematic way.  It focuses on global stocks that look cheap relative to fundamentals like earnings, book value, and cash flow. That makes it a natural counterbalance to growth-heavy portfolios, especially after periods when expensive stocks have run hard.

I like the VVLU ETF because it gives exposure to global value without relying on discretionary stock picking. The rules-based approach keeps it disciplined, and the global remit means it’s not tied to the fortunes of any single region or sector.

In a world where market leadership can rotate quickly, having a value tilt alongside broad market exposure can help smooth returns over time.

Foolish Takeaway

I don’t think there’s such a thing as a perfect portfolio, but there are sensible foundations.

A combination of the VGS ETF for global growth, the VAS ETF for Australian exposure and income, and the VVLU ETF for valuation discipline covers a lot of ground with just three ETFs. From there, investors can add satellite positions, individual shares, or thematic funds depending on their goals.

The post 3 Vanguard ETFs I think deserve a spot in most portfolios appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• 3 most popular ASX ETFs focused on Aussie shares
• How could I turn $500 a month into $50,000 with ASX shares?
• Passive income: How much do you need to invest to make $500 per month?
• Want to invest in the best stocks in the world? Try these ASX ETFs
• Why this Vanguard ETF could be a wealth-generator

Motley Fool contributor Grace Alvino has positions in Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Vanguard Msci Index International Shares ETF. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

ASX 200 financial shares led the market during a difficult week, rising 1.52% over the five trading days.

The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) closed 1.81% lower at 8,708.8 points as earnings season got underway.

The week began with a commodities rout that pummelled ASX 200 mining shares.

Investors took profits as metals, particularly gold and silver, plunged on news of the US President’s Fed chair pick.

On Tuesday, a 0.25% interest rate hike in Australia benefitted the ASX 200 financial sector but created pain for tech.

ASX 200 tech shares fell almost 12% last week. The sector is now down almost 20% in the year to date.

Out of the 11 market sectors, only two finished the week in the green.

Let’s review.

Financial shares led the ASX sectors last week

Share price performance varied across the ASX 200 financial sector, which incorporates bank shares, insurers, fund managers, and more.

The Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) share price soared 6.39% to finish at $158.91 on Friday.

CBA will reveal its 1H FY26 results on Wednesday.

Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Ltd (ASX: ANZ) shares closed the week at $37.01, up 0.84%.

Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC) shares ascended 1.57% to $39.43.

National Australia Bank Ltd (ASX: NAB) shares fell 0.02% to $43.36.

The Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG) share price lost 2.05% to close at $207.83.

Among the investment companies and fund managers, Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Co Ltd (ASX: SOL) shares fell 4.09% to $37.01.

GQG Partners Inc (ASX: GQG) shares rose 7.96% to $1.70.

Shares in Argo Investments Ltd (ASX: ARG), which reports on Monday, descended 0.77% to $9.02 apiece.

Among the financial services providers, AMP Ltd (ASX: AMP) shares fell 2.94% to $1.65.

AMP will release its 1H FY26 results on Thursday.

The Challenger Ltd (ASX: CGF) share price dropped 3.15% to $8.92.

Buy now, pay later share Zip Co Ltd (ASX: ZIP) fell 10.19% to $2.38.

Among the ASX 200 insurers, Medibank Private Ltd (ASX: MPL) shares fell 1.08% to $4.57.

The QBE Insurance Group Ltd (ASX: QBE) share price ascended 2.23% to $20.18.

Insurance Australia Group Ltd (ASX: IAG) shares rose 1.71% to $7.73.

IAG will release its 1H FY26 results on Thursday.

See our earnings calendar to find out when the companies you’re invested in will announce their dividends.

ASX 200 market sector snapshot

Here’s how the 11 market sectors stacked up last week, according to CommSec data.

Over the five trading days:

S&P/ASX 200 market sector	Change last week
Financials (ASX: XFJ)	1.52%
Consumer Staples (ASX: XSJ)	0.03%
Consumer Discretionary (ASX: XDJ)	(1.36%)
Healthcare (ASX: XHJ)	(2.39%)
Energy (ASX: XEJ)	(2.4%)
Industrials (ASX: XNJ)	(2.42%)
Communication (ASX: XTJ)	(3.88%)
A-REIT (ASX: XPJ)	(4.08%)
Materials (ASX: XMJ)	(4.12%)
Utilities (ASX: XUJ)	(4.72%)
Information Technology (ASX: XIJ)	(11.91%)

The post ASX 200 financials flew but tech and mining shares faltered last week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• I would invest $50,000 in these ASX 200 shares if I were aiming to beat the market in 2026
• How could I turn $500 a month into $50,000 with ASX shares?
• Here’s the average Australian superannuation balance at age 45 in 2026
• What the stronger Australian dollar means for your shares
• 3 ASX 200 stocks jumping higher in this week’s falling market

Motley Fool contributor Bronwyn Allen has positions in Zip Co. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Macquarie Group and Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Company Limited. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Macquarie Group and Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Company Limited. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Challenger and Gqg Partners. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

Investing does not always mean chasing the fastest-moving stocks on the market.

For many investors, a more sensible approach is to focus on long-term themes, structural advantages, and businesses that can steadily expand earnings over many years.

ASX exchange traded funds (ETFs) make this easier by offering diversified exposure to these ideas without relying on a single company getting everything right.

Here are three ASX ETFs that could appeal to Aussie investors looking beyond February and into the years ahead.

Betashares India Quality ETF (ASX: IIND)

The first ASX ETF to consider is the Betashares India Quality ETF.

India’s investment case is often discussed in terms of population size, but what makes the opportunity compelling is the combination of domestic demand growth and improving corporate quality. This fund focuses on Indian companies that exhibit strong balance sheets, consistent profitability, and sustainable earnings.

The Betashares India Quality ETF holds businesses such as HDFC Bank (NSEI: HDFCBANK), Infosys (NYSE: INFY), and ICICI Bank (NSEI: ICICIBANK), companies that benefit from rising financial penetration, digital adoption, and expanding consumer spending.

Rather than relying on export-driven growth, many of these businesses are tied directly to India’s internal economic development, which gives the ETF a different growth profile to developed-market equities. Betashares recently recommended the fund to clients.

Betashares Australian Quality ETF (ASX: AQLT)

Another ASX ETF that suits growth investors is the Betashares Australian Quality ETF.

It applies a quality filter to the Australian share market, favouring companies with strong returns on equity, low debt levels, and reliable earnings. This leads to a portfolio that looks very different from the traditional index.

Holdings include businesses such as CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL), Goodman Group (ASX: GMG), and REA Group Ltd (ASX: REA), companies that have been able to reinvest profitably over long periods.

Instead of betting on rapid expansion, the Betashares Australian Quality ETF targets businesses that compound steadily by maintaining high margins and disciplined capital allocation. Over time, that consistency can translate into attractive long-term returns. This fund was recently recommended by the fund manager.

VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat ETF (ASX: MOAT)

A final ASX ETF to consider for growth is the VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat ETF.

This fund invests in US companies that possess sustainable competitive advantages, or wide economic moats. These advantages can come from brand strength, switching costs, network effects, or intellectual property. Legendary investor Warren Buffett is known to seek these qualities when making investments, so this fund could be an easy way to invest like the Oracle of Omaha.

The ETF includes stocks such as Adobe (NASDAQ: ADBE), United Parcel Service (NYSE: UPS), and Danaher (NYSE: DHR). While these may not always be the fastest-growing stocks in any given year, their ability to defend market share often allows them to grow earnings through multiple economic cycles.

The post 3 excellent ASX ETFs for Aussie investors to buy in February and beyond appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Where to invest $5,000 in ASX ETFs this month
• The top Australian ETFs I would buy this week
• 3 of the best ASX ETFs to buy in February with $3,000
• Why I would buy and hold these VanEck ETFs for a decade or more
• 3 of the best ASX ETFs for Australian investors to buy now

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in CSL, Goodman Group, REA Group, and VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat ETF. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Adobe, CSL, Danaher, Goodman Group, and United Parcel Service. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has recommended HDFC Bank and has recommended the following options: long January 2028 $330 calls on Adobe and short January 2028 $340 calls on Adobe. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Adobe, CSL, Goodman Group, and VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat ETF. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

If I were putting $50,000 to work today with the aim of outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) in 2026, I’d be looking for a mix of rebound potential, operational momentum, and businesses that are quietly executing better than the share price suggests.

These five ASX 200 shares stand out to me right now for different reasons. They’re not perfect, and they won’t all move in a straight line, but I think the combined risk-reward stacks up well.

CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL)

CSL feels like a classic rebound candidate after a frustrating period.

The business went through a tough stretch in 2025, with a combination of weaker influenza vaccine conditions in the US, softer albumin demand in China, and slower-than-expected margin recovery in its Behring division. Add in lingering disappointment around past pipeline setbacks, and sentiment clearly swung too far the wrong way.

What interests me now is that much of this negativity is already reflected in the share price. CSL remains a global leader in plasma-derived therapies, with structural demand drivers that haven’t gone away. If operating conditions normalise even modestly, earnings momentum could surprise on the upside in 2026.

This isn’t about a return to perfection. It’s about a high-quality business getting back to something closer to its long-term trajectory.

ResMed Inc (ASX: RMD)

ResMed continues to do what great companies do. It executes.

As we saw last week when the ASX 200 share released its second-quarter results, demand for sleep apnoea treatment remains strong, and margins are improving. The business has also navigated competitive noise without losing momentum, which tells me its underlying position is stronger than headlines sometimes imply.

What I like most is consistency. ResMed doesn’t rely on a single catalyst or one-off event. Growth comes from a combination of expanding patient numbers, higher device penetration, and recurring mask sales.

If I’m trying to beat the market, I want at least one stock that simply keeps compounding while others are more volatile. ResMed fits that role well.

HUB24 Ltd (ASX: HUB)

HUB24 is a business benefiting from a structural shift rather than a cyclical one.

As financial advice becomes more complex and regulated, advisers are gravitating toward platforms that offer flexibility, functionality, and efficiency. HUB24 continues to capture that flow, not through aggressive pricing, but by building a platform advisers genuinely want to use.

What stands out to me is operating leverage. As funds under administration grow, revenue scales faster than costs, which drives strong earnings growth. That dynamic is powerful when markets are supportive and still holds up reasonably well when conditions soften.

For 2026, I think HUB24 has a strong chance of outperforming the market if it continues to deliver on its growth targets.

Zip Co Ltd (ASX: ZIP)

Zip is a very different type of opportunity. The ASX 200 share has made real progress operationally, improving margins, tightening credit performance, and moving firmly into profitability. Yet the share price remains well below prior highs, largely due to lingering scepticism toward the BNPL sector as a whole.

That disconnect is what makes Zip interesting to me. It’s no longer a growth-at-any-cost story, but the market hasn’t fully adjusted to that reality yet. If execution continues and earnings scale as expected, I think the valuation gap could close meaningfully.

This is higher risk than the other names, but it also offers higher upside if things play out well.

Qantas Airways Ltd (ASX: QAN)

Qantas earns its place here because of how strong the underlying business has become.

The airline has emerged from its restructuring period with a leaner cost base, a more disciplined approach to capacity, and improved fleet efficiency. Demand remains solid, and cash generation has been impressive.

What I find compelling is that Qantas is no longer relying purely on a travel rebound. Loyalty, freight, and operational improvements are all contributing to earnings resilience.

If conditions remain even halfway reasonable, I think Qantas has a genuine chance to outperform expectations again in 2026.

Foolish Takeaway

If my goal were to beat the market in 2026, I’d want exposure to different types of upside. A high-quality rebound in CSL, consistent compounders like ResMed and HUB24, a higher-risk turnaround in Zip, and a cash-generative cyclical leader in Qantas.

I wouldn’t expect all five to shine at the same time. But together, they give me multiple ways to win, which is exactly what I’d be aiming for when investing a meaningful sum with an eye on outperformance.

The post I would invest $50,000 in these ASX 200 shares if I were aiming to beat the market in 2026 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Buy, hold, sell: CSL, Pinnacle, and Telix shares
• How could I turn $500 a month into $50,000 with ASX shares?
• Passive income: How much do you need to invest to make $500 per month?
• What the stronger Australian dollar means for your shares
• Ord Minnett has a ‘strongly positive view’ on this ASX 200 star

Motley Fool contributor Grace Alvino has positions in CSL and Hub24. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended CSL, Hub24, and ResMed. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended ResMed. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended CSL and Hub24. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

The All Ordinaries Index (ASX: XAO) is extremely unlikely to more than double in 2026, but rising ASX energy stock Omega Oil & Gas Ltd (ASX: OMA) is forecast to do just that.

That’s according to the team at Canaccord Genuity.

Omega shares closed on Friday trading for 41.5 cents apiece.

This sees the Omega share price up 9% over 12 months.

The small-cap ASX energy stock struggled in the first months of 2025, before hitting one-year lows of 20 cents a share on 19 May. As of Friday’s close, the Omega share price had surged 108% from those lows.

And looking to the year ahead, the analysts at Canaccord believe Omega shares can more than double investors’ money again.

Here’s why.

ASX energy stock in the sweet spot

Omega Oil & Gas released its December quarterly results on 29 January.

The ASX energy stock closed up 2.2% on the day after reporting the completion of its $14.6 million investment to acquire a 19.4% interest in Elixir Energy Ltd (ASX: EXR).

Looking to the year ahead, Omega noted that it will undertake “substantial 2026 drilling campaigns” across the Taroom Trough in Queensland, noting Taroom is “highly prospective for both gas and liquids”.

Commenting on the company’s plans in the Taroom Trough, Omega CEO Trevor Brown said:

The completion of our investment in Elixir Energy represents a strategically compelling step for Omega.

It strengthens our position across the Taroom Trough, enhances our influence in a basin which we believe is on the cusp of significant value creation, and supports Omega becoming the industry partner of choice in the region.

The team at Canaccord agree this is a positive development for the ASX energy stock.

The broker noted that the government’s 2025 Gas Market Review highlighted that the East Coast gas market could potentially face shortfalls by 2029.

“Longstanding gas fields are rapidly depleting, and new supply projects are not coming online quickly enough to offset the decline,” Canaccord said.

As for the growing importance of the Taroom Trough, Canaccord noted, “The Taroom Trough will see elevated activity levels in 2026 as Elixir, Shell PLC (NYSE: SHEL) and Omega all conduct material drill programs.”

The broker added:

With the Federal government set to develop an East Coast domestic gas reservation scheme (in consultation with industry and trade partners) LNG exporters should be seeking to shore up their domestic gas credentials, a clear positive for the Taroom Trough in our view.

With a material footprint on both the Eastern and Western flanks of the Trough, we believe OMA is set to be a dominant proponent in this play.

Connecting the dots, Canaccord retained its speculative buy rating on the ASX energy stock with an 85-cent per share price target.

That’s more than 104% above Omega’s closing price on Friday.

The post Why this buy-rated ASX energy share is tipped to more than double in 2026 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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Motley Fool contributor Bernd Struben has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

For investors who want broad exposure to Australian shares without picking individual stocks, ASX exchange-traded funds (ETFs) have become the go-to solution.

Among the most widely held are three familiar tickers: Vanguard Australian Shares ETF (ASX: VAS), BetaShares Australia 200 ETF (ASX: A200), and iShares Core S&P/ASX 200 ETF (ASX: IOZ).

They look similar on the surface, but each has a slightly different focus and appeal depending on what kind of investor you are.

VAS: The broad, all-rounder

Vanguard Australian Shares ETF is often the first ETF investors encounter — and for good reason. It tracks the S&P/ASX 300 Index (ASX: XKO), giving exposure to around 300 of the largest Australian-listed companies. That makes it the most diversified of the three.

The ASX ETF is heavily weighted toward financials and resources. It has big positions in Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA), BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP), CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL), National Australia Bank Ltd (ASX: NAB), and Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC). Because it reaches beyond the top 200 stocks, VAS also includes a meaningful slice of mid-caps. They can add a touch of growth over the long term.

VAS is attractive to investors who want a true “own the market” approach. It’s often used as a core holding, particularly for long-term and income-focused portfolios. It pays regular dividends largely funded by bank and mining dividends.

A200: Low cost, big names

BetaShares Australia 200 has surged in popularity thanks to one key differentiator: cost. The ASX ETF tracks the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO), like iShares Core S&P/ASX 200 ETF, but with one of the lowest management fees available in Australia.

The fund focuses on the country’s 200 largest companies. That means it’s slightly more concentrated than VAS and excludes smaller mid-cap names. Its largest holdings overlap heavily with VAS. Think Commonwealth Bank, BHP, CSL, ANZ Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: ANZ), and Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG), but without the long tail of smaller stocks.

A200 appeals to cost-conscious investors who believe fees matter over the long run. If your goal is simple, low-cost exposure to Australia’s biggest and most liquid companies, this ASX ETF is hard to ignore.

IOZ: The established core option

This ASX ETF is one of the longest-standing Australian equity ETFs and also tracks the ASX 200. iShares Core S&P/ASX 200 ETF sits somewhere between VAS and A200 in terms of approach. It offers broad large-cap exposure with a competitive – though not the lowest – fee.

Like A200, IOZ is dominated by banks, miners, and healthcare giants. Investors get exposure to Australia’s dividend-heavy blue chips. That makes it popular with income seekers and SMSFs looking for simplicity and reliability.

IOZ’s appeal lies in its track record and issuer reputation. It’s often chosen by investors who want a no-frills, set-and-forget ETF from a well-established provider.

Foolish Takeaway

VAS suits investors wanting the broadest exposure to the Australian market. A200 is ideal for those focused on minimising fees while sticking to large caps.

The third ASX ETF, IOZ, offers a proven, straightforward way to access Australia’s biggest companies. None are better in isolation. The right choice depends on whether you value diversification, cost, or simplicity most.

The post 3 most popular ASX ETFs focused on Aussie shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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• This ASX ETF might be the only one you’ll ever need
• 10 most popular ASX ETFs on the market today
• VAS and IVV: 3 reasons these two ASX ETFs belong in a long-term portfolio

Motley Fool contributor Marc Van Dinther has positions in BHP Group. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended CSL and Macquarie Group. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Macquarie Group. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended BHP Group and CSL. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.