4 ASX sectors (not mining) that could explode in 2024

The resources sector could welcome the boom part of its life cycle, but which are the other stocks that could also rocket?

| More on:

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

With the global economy struggling at the moment, many commentators are bullish on the resources sector for next year.

The idea is that mining has its fortunes directly related to how confident consumers and businesses feel, because that pushes up demand for raw materials.

So that could be considered the low-hanging fruit for next year.

But what about other sectors?

Ausbil chief investment officer Paul Xiradis offered his thoughts this week.

"Heading into 2024, the economy is now in the early stages of normalisation.

"While there is much geopolitical risk, the global economy is on an upward path, and is expected to grow by 3.2% in 2024 on Ausbil's forecasts."

The mining sector's dominance in Australia will steer the nation away from a recession, he added.

"There is room for some upward surprise in certain sectors as Australia's economy remains relatively resilient and is operating near full employment."

Multi-ethnic people looking at a camera in a public place and screaming, shouting, and feeling overjoyed.

Image source: Getty Images

'Quality leaders with operational and pricing leverage'

Xiradis' team feels like earnings growth will be hard to generate in 2024.

"However, there are several areas where we expect to see growth," he said.

"We favour earnings growth from GDP-agnostic sectors and stocks, and quality leaders with demonstrated operational and pricing leverage."

The four non-mining sectors that fit this bill, according to Xiradis, are healthcare, technology, telecommunications and commercial services.

Cost cutting and a slowdown in interest rate rises saw tech shares make a comeback this year after a punishing 2022.

RBA cash rate graph

"Ausbil sees technology as a potential earnings rerate in FY24. However, as most are long-duration growth assets, the impact will be variable," said Xiradis.

"We expect pressures on valuation multiples overall, particularly for non-profitable tech stocks. We are selective, and favour tech with underlying sustainable cash flows with strong and growing earnings."

The overall valuation of the Australian share market is "currently sitting close to long-term average multiples on a suppressed earnings outlook".

But Xiradis warned that the market average "never really tells the story on its own".

"Consensus currently expects earnings contraction in FY24 of -4.0% for the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO), then a return to earnings growth of +4.7% in FY25," he said.

"However, we believe that earnings growth well above the system can be achieved in some sectors in FY24, and through key quality opportunities looking ahead."

Motley Fool contributor Tony Yoo 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.

More on Sector

A diverse group of happy office workers join hands in a team high five in celebration of a job well done.
ETFs

5 fantastic ASX ETFs to buy and hold for five years

Looking for an easy way to invest? These funds could be the answer.

Read more »

Man stands with head on his hands in front of a downward graph.
Share Market News

Here's why ASX 200 energy shares were the only risers last week

Energy was the only ASX 200 market sector to finish in the green as the war in Iran continued.

Read more »

Bank building in a financial district.
Bank Shares

If I invest $5,000 in NAB shares, how much passive income will I receive in 2027?

NAB is expected to pay another large dividend in FY27.

Read more »

A young well-dressed couple at a luxury resort celebrate successful life choices.
ETFs

Why I think these Vanguard ETFs could outperform the ASX 200

The ASX 200 has delivered solid returns, but I wouldn’t limit a long-term portfolio to Australian shares.

Read more »

Four businessmen pull martial arts stances as they get into a defensive position.
ETFs

3 defensive ASX ETFs to battle through market turmoil

One strategy to protect your portfolio.

Read more »

Person pointing finger on on an increasing graph which represents a rising share price.
Financial Shares

A leading investor just bought these ASX 200 shares for income and growth

These businesses have been chosen as top buys right now.

Read more »

A large clear wine glass on the left of the image filled with fifty dollar notes on a timber table with a wine cellar or cabinet with bottles in the background.
Dividend Investing

How many Fortescue shares do I need to buy for $10,000 a year in passive income?

Fortescue shares have a long track record of twice-yearly passive income payments.

Read more »

A banker uses his hands to protect a pile of coins on his desk, indicating a possible inflation hedge.
ETFs

These 3 ASX ETFs can protect your portfolio against inflation

With inflation on the rise, investors should think about protecting their assets.

Read more »