Analysts think these ASX 200 shares are strong buys

These shares could generate big returns for investors according to brokers.

| More on:
A female broker in a red jacket whispers in the ear of a man who has a surprised look on his face as she explains which two ASX 200 shares should do well in today's volatile climate

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

The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) may be at a record high, but that doesn't mean there aren't any great value shares out there.

For example, the two ASX 200 shares listed below have been named as strong buys by brokers and tipped to rise materially from current levels. Here's what they are saying about them:

Neuren Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: NEU)

Bell Potter thinks that Neuren Pharmaceuticals could be one of the best ASX 200 shares to buy now.

It is developing new drug therapies to treat multiple serious neurological disorders that emerge in early childhood and have no or limited approved treatment options.

Its first product, DAYBUE, is approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of Rett syndrome in adult and pediatric patients two years of age and older.

Whereas its second drug candidate, NNZ-2591, is in phase 2 development for multiple neurodevelopmental disorders. Positive results have been achieved in phase 2 clinical trials in Phelan-McDermid syndrome, Pitt Hopkins syndrome, and Angelman syndrome.

Bell Potter is a big fan of the company. This is largely due to its NNZ-2591 drug candidate. It explains:

NEU is a biotech company that is well-funded via its first asset, DAYBUE, which is an FDA approved trofinetide for the treatment of Rett syndrome. NEU's value is from its second asset, NNZ-2591, which is under development for rare diseases. NNZ-2591, if successful, could lead to a significant increase in revenue and earnings when brought to market. NEU looks attractive on a risk/adjusted basis after the recent sell-off.

The broker has a buy rating and $25.00 price target on its shares. This implies potential upside of 76% for investors over the next 12 months.

Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW)

Another ASX 200 share that could be a best buy according to analysts is Woolworths.

It is Australia's largest retailer operating the eponymous Woolworths supermarket chain, Big W, and a growing pet care business. Each week, it aims to provide the best possible convenience, value, range and quality to the 24 million customers it serves across its growing network of businesses.

Goldman Sachs is very bullish on the retail giant and has its shares on its conviction list. It said:

We are Buy rated on the stock as we believe the business has among the highest consumer stickiness and loyalty among peers, and hence has strong ability to drive market share gains via its omni-channel advantage, as well as its ability to pass through any cost inflation to protect its margins, beyond market expectations. The stock is trading below its historical average (since 2018), and we see this as a value entry level for a high-quality and defensive stock.

The broker has a buy rating and $40.10 price target on its shares. This suggests that upside of 15% is possible from current levels.

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Goldman Sachs Group. 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 Broker Notes

Man presses green buy button and red sell button on a graph.
Broker Notes

Top brokers name 3 ASX shares to buy today

Here's what brokers are recommending as buys this week.

Read more »

A farmer pats a small beef cattle bovine on the head in a green field with trees in the background.
Broker Notes

Two undervalued agriculture ASX shares to add to your Christmas stocking

These stocks could be a buy before the new year.

Read more »

Rising real estate share price.
REITs

Macquarie names its top 4 ASX REITs to buy today

Macquarie expects these four dividend paying ASX REITs will all surge higher in 2026.

Read more »

Man with virtual white circles on his eye and AI written on top, symbolising artificial intelligence.
Broker Notes

Why this ASX AI stock could return 40% in 2026

Let's see which stock Bell Potter is tipping to rise strongly.

Read more »

Woman leaping in the air and standing out from her friends who are watching.
Broker Notes

This ASX 200 gold stock has surged 77% in 2025. Here's why Macquarie expects it to leap another 23%

Macquarie forecasts 23% upside for this surging ASX gold stock, and that doesn’t include the dividends!

Read more »

green lithium battery being held by person
Broker Notes

Forget Pilbara Minerals! Expert says this ASX lithium stock could soar 112%

Strategically important.

Read more »

A happy construction worker or miner holds a fistful of Australian dollar notes.
Broker Notes

Expert tips 165% upside for this ASX mining stock as rare earths tailwinds persist

Marching forward.

Read more »

Middle age caucasian man smiling confident drinking coffee at home.
Broker Notes

Buy, hold, sell: CSL, Vulcan, Woolworths shares

Let's see what analysts are saying about these stocks this week.

Read more »