It's going to be a great year for stocks, say analysts

Many analysts are making bullish calls for fiscal 2014.

| More on:
a woman

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

Many analysts are releasing bullish estimates for fiscal 2014 — and even the nearer term.

Per The Australian Financial Review, "While the more bullish forecasts have the Australian benchmark S&P/ASX 200 climbing about 20 per cent higher by June 30 next year… Other experts, who prefer calendar year-end forecasts have the market rising as much as 15 per cent this year."

Following up a big 2013

This would come on the heels of a relatively extraordinary 2013, no matter the recent market jitters. Inclusive of dividends, the S&P/ASX 200 index (Index: ^AXJO) (ASX: XJO) gained nearly 23% in fiscal 2013, well above the average annual market return.

Of course, for some individual stocks, the year was even better. Some of 2013's biggest successes include fund manager Magellian Financial Group (ASX: MFG) and travel agency Flight Centre (ASX: FLT), as well as JB Hi-Fi (ASX: JBH).

XJO, JBH, MFG, FLT

Positive signs for 2014

Looking forward to the coming year, positive signs include the continuing U.S. economic recovery and, to an extent, the falling Australian dollar which in general benefits resources companies such as BHP Billiton (ASX: BHP). The mining giant has said that for every one cent fall in the AUD to the USD, the company sees $100 million in additional net profits after tax.

Looking for some investment ideas for 2014? Two of Australia's most promising small companies are still flying under the radar. Discover these two exciting ASX investments in our brand-new special FREE report, "2 Small Cap Superstars". Click here now, it's free!

More reading 

Motley Fool contributor Catherine Baab-Muguira does not own shares in any company mentioned in this article.

More on ⏸️ Investing

Close up of baby looking puzzled
Retail Shares

What has happened to the Baby Bunting (ASX:BBN) share price this year?

It's been a volatile year so far for the Aussie nursery retailer. We take a closer look

Read more »

woman holds sign saying 'we need change' at climate change protest
ETFs

3 ASX ETFs that invest in companies fighting climate change

If you want to shift some of your investments into more ethical companies, exchange-traded funds can offer a good option

Read more »

a jewellery store attendant stands at a cabinet displaying opulent necklaces and earrings featuring diamonds and precious stones.
⏸️ Investing

The Michael Hill (ASX: MHJ) share price poised for growth

Investors will be keeping an eye on the Michael Hill International Limited (ASX: MHJ) share price today. The keen interest…

Read more »

ASX shares buy unstoppable asx share price represented by man in superman cape pointing skyward
⏸️ Investing

The Atomos (ASX:AMS) share price is up 15% in a week

The Atomos (ASX: AMS) share price has surged 15% this week. Let's look at what's ahead as the company build…

Read more »

Two people in suits arm wrestle on a black and white chess board.
Retail Shares

How does the Temple & Webster (ASX:TPW) share price stack up against Nick Scali (ASX:NCK)?

How does the Temple & Webster (ASX: TPW) share price stack up against rival furniture retailer Nick Scali Limited (ASX:…

Read more »

A medical researcher works on a bichip, indicating share price movement in ASX tech companies
Healthcare Shares

The Aroa (ASX:ARX) share price has surged 60% since its IPO

The Aroa (ASX:ARX) share price has surged 60% since the Polynovo (ASX: PNV) competitor listed on the ASX in July.…

Read more »

asx investor daydreaming about US shares
⏸️ How to Invest

How to buy US shares from Australia right now

If you have been wondering how to buy US shares from Australia to gain exposure from the highly topical market,…

Read more »

⏸️ Investing

Why Fox (NASDAQ:FOX) might hurt News Corp (ASX:NWS) shareholders

News Corporation (ASX: NWS) might be facing some existential threats from its American cousins over the riots on 6 January

Read more »