Everyone's nervous at the moment.
Banks are nervous that the liquidity spotlight will turn to them, investors are nervous about further interest rate rises, and consumers are nervous about recession and unemployment.
It's an anxious time for all concerned.
That's why stock picking is now more fraught than ever. So it's not a bad idea to avoid being too cute and buy ASX shares of businesses that are already exhibiting positive signs.
Here are two such examples from Medallion Financial Group director Philippe Bui:
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'Strong tailwinds heading into fiscal year 2024'
The XRF Scientific Limited (ASX: XRF) has already rocketed 18.6% year to date, but Bui feels like the climb isn't finished yet.
"Recent half year results from this equipment and chemicals manufacturer were impressive," Bui told The Bull.
"Sales revenue of $27.1 million was up 46% on the prior corresponding period. Net profit after tax of $3.7 million was up 34%."
The industrial testing and chemical goods provider has a bright outlook.
"The capital equipment part of the business seems to have strong tailwinds heading into fiscal year 2024."
Despite an almost 55% climb over the past year, Bui is not worried that XRF shares have already exhausted their run.
"Despite share price strength, the business was recently trading on a reasonable price-earnings multiple of 18 times."
Market yet to price in guidance upgrade
Insurance repairer Johns Lyng Group Ltd (ASX: JLG) seems to be popular among professional investors at the moment.
According to CMC Markets, incredibly all 10 analysts that follow the stock are currently rating it as a strong buy.
Bui is no different.
"First half 2023 group sales revenue of $635.6 million was up 71.2% on the prior corresponding period."
He noted the company forecast an upgrade to its 2023 revenue by 11.2% for fiscal year 2023.
"We believe the market is yet to fully price in the significant uptick to full year guidance," said Bui.
"Work volumes in the next six months may surprise to the upside."
Johns Lyng stock price has gained 5.8% so far this year. But it may still be a buying opportunity as it's still more than 26.8% lower than where it was 12 months ago.
