Why CBA shares are one of Morgans' best ideas

CBA could be a core portfolio holding according to one broker.

| More on:
A man sees some good news on his phone and gives a little cheer.

Image source: Getty Images

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

Due to its premium valuation, there are not many brokers that are overly positive on Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) shares.

But that doesn't mean that nobody is!

In fact, one leading broker has Australia's largest bank on its best ideas list again this month.

That broker is Morgans, which named CBA and rival Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC) as two of its best ideas in June.

What is a best idea?

Morgans explains that its best ideas are those that it thinks offer the highest risk-adjusted returns over a 12-month timeframe.

They are also supported by a higher-than-average level of confidence and are its most preferred sector exposures.

Interestingly, CBA shares make the list despite the broker only having a hold rating and a $96.08 price target on them. This is lower than the current CBA share price of $100.51.

Though, it is worth noting that Morgans is forecasting fully franked dividends per share of $4.26 in FY 2023 and $4.20 in FY 2024. This provides income investors with attractive yields of approximately 4.2% in both years.

What is the broker saying about CBA shares?

Morgans see CBA as the highest quality bank on the Australian share market and a core portfolio holding for the long term. It explains:

The second largest stock on the ASX by market capitalisation. We view CBA as the highest quality bank and a core portfolio holding for the long term, but the trade-off is it is the most expensive on key valuation metrics (including the lowest dividend yield). Amongst the major banks, CBA has the highest return on equity, lowest cost of equity (reflecting asset and funding mix), and strongest technology. It is currently benefitting from the sugar hit of both the rising rate environment and relatively benign credit environment.

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in Westpac Banking Corporation. 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.

More on Bank Shares

A young man in a blue suit sits on his desk cross-legged with his phone in his hand looking slightly crazed.
Bank Shares

Would I be mad to buy more CBA shares near $160?

CBA has come down quite a bit since June...

Read more »

A girl wearing yellow headphones pulls a grimace, that was not a good result.
Bank Shares

CBA shares down 16% since peak amid core advantages 'slowly being eroded'

Blackwattle Investment Partners says CBA's competitive advantages are weakening.

Read more »

Young businessman lost in depression on stairs.
Bank Shares

Can ANZ shares go any higher after a 28% sizzle in 2025?

Bank experts are measured and see modest declines.

Read more »

asx share penalty represented by lots of fingers pointing at disgraced businessman Crown royal commission WA
Bank Shares

ANZ hit with $250m fine for widespread misconduct and systemic risk failures

The big four bank has received a record fine from the regulator.

Read more »

A pink piggybank sits in a pile of autumn leaves.
Bank Shares

4% yield: Is NAB's dividend safe?

An expert says NAB's cherished dividend might be under threat.

Read more »

A young woman drinking coffee in a cafe smiles as she checks her phone.
Bank Shares

Why today is a great day to own ANZ and Westpac shares

These banks are making their shareholders happy today. But how?

Read more »

Small girl giving a fist bump with a piggy bank in front of her.
Bank Shares

$5,000 invested in ANZ shares at the start of 2025 is now worth…

The big 4 bank's shares have climbed higher recently.

Read more »

Smiling man holding Australian dollar notes, symbolising dividends.
Bank Shares

How many CBA shares do I need to buy for $1,000 of annual passive income?

Here’s what it would take to make $1,000 of annual income from the biggest bank.

Read more »