2014 has been quite a disappointing year for Australian investors. While equity markets around the world have surged higher, the S&P/ASX 200 (Index: ^AXJO) (ASX: XJO) has only managed to rise 0.9% in what has proven to be a rollercoaster ride, as can be seen in the chart below.
Source: Google Finance
But by all accounts, 2015 could be a much greater year for investors. In fact, Credit Suisse has even suggested the ASX 200 could surge as high as 6,000 points in 12 months' time – a 12% increase from today's level. With that in mind, here are my top 10 favourite stock picks for 2015 to help you achieve your financial goals in 2015.
1. Woolworths Limited (ASX: WOW): It's not often you get to buy one of Australia's greatest stocks at such a discounted price. While it's expected to yield 6.8% in FY15 (grossed up), this stock could be one of the best buy-to-hold purchases you make all year.
2. Coca-Cola Amatil Ltd (ASX: CCL): The beverage manufacturer is in a similar boat to Woolworths. Investors who choose to buy the out-of-favour blue chip stock could be handsomely rewarded in 2015 and beyond. It's expected to yield 4.5%, franked to 75%.
3. Nearmap Ltd (ASX: NEA): A provider of geospatial map technology has delivered enormous returns to investors over the last two years, and 2015 should be no different. The company is expanding into the US faster than it had anticipated which could see the share price soar well above its current 68 cent price tag.
4. Veda Group Ltd (ASX: VED): The data analytics group has a long growth path laid out in front of it and 2015 could be the year its potential is recognised. Furthermore, the importance of this company's offerings could greatly appreciate as a result of the recent Murray Financial Inquiry, and Veda could be a standout stock in 2015.
5. Greencross Limited (ASX: GXL): Australia's leading provider of veterinary services has been one of the market's top performing stocks in recent years but has considerably pulled back in price recently, giving investors the opportune time to make their move right now. With strong earnings growth anticipated, this could be one to hold in 2015 and the years to follow.
6. Insurance Australia Group Ltd (ASX: IAG): The insurance group could be strongly sought after by investors due mostly to its incredible dividend. In FY15, it's expected to pay 38.1 cents per share in dividends, putting it on a forecast yield of 6% fully franked.
7. Shine Corporate Ltd (ASX: SHJ): The plaintiff litigation company continues to expand across Australia while also exploring new practice areas, outside from its traditional focus on personal injury cases. With a strong management team and a disciplined approach to business, Shine Corporate is well deserving of a position on this list.
8. Slater & Gordon Limited (ASX: SGH): Like Shine Corporate, Slater & Gordon could also continue to rise strongly in 2015 as the company continues to expand into the UK market.
9. M2 Group Ltd (ASX: MTU): With Telstra Corporation Ltd (ASX: TLS) shares now appearing to be quite expensive, those wanting exposure to Australia's telecommunications sector could turn to M2 Group. It possesses far greater growth prospects and is tipped to yield 3.8% in FY15, fully franked.
10. Burson Group Ltd (ASX: BAP): The company, which sells car parts to mechanics, could be in for a big year should the unemployment rate continue to rise. With consumer confidence remaining shaky, more people could choose to stick with their old vehicles which should generate plenty of demand for Burson's products.
There is one more company which could be an even greater buy than any of those companies mentioned above.
