Self-managed super funds (SMSFs) continue to grow in popularity and it isn't hard to see why.
They give investors control over their retirement savings, allowing them to tailor their portfolio to suit their long-term financial goals.
But with that flexibility comes responsibility — and selecting high-quality investments that can deliver sustainable returns over time is crucial.
Here are three fantastic ASX shares that brokers rate as buys and could be top picks for an SMSF portfolio.
CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL)
CSL is widely regarded as one of the crown jewels of the Australian share market — and for good reason. This global biotechnology business operates in essential healthcare markets, manufacturing life-saving plasma therapies and vaccines. With a world-class R&D pipeline, strong global demand, and defensive earnings, CSL ticks a lot of boxes for SMSF investors.
Despite short-term headwinds, including regulatory and foreign exchange pressures, CSL continues to invest heavily in innovation and has reaffirmed guidance for solid earnings growth.
Morgans thinks its shares are "materially undervalued" and rates CSL as a buy with a $303.70 price target.
Goodman Group (ASX: GMG)
Another ASX share to consider for an SMSF is Goodman Group. It is a global industrial property powerhouse that develops and manages logistics and warehouse assets in high-demand markets.
Goodman has a strong track record of delivering earnings and distribution growth, backed by long-term structural tailwinds such as e-commerce and supply chain optimisation.
The good news is that its recent push into data centre assets positions the business for further growth over the next decade.
Citi expects this to be the case. As a result, it recently put a buy rating and $40.00 price target on its shares.
Transurban Group (ASX: TCL)
Finally, for those looking for defensive and inflation-linked growth, Transurban Group is an SMSF share that is hard to ignore.
The company owns and operates toll roads in major cities across Australia and North America. With many of its assets secured through long-dated concessions, Transurban benefits from highly predictable cash flows.
It could also a compelling option for retirees or those nearing retirement, with a strong dividend profile and the potential for growing distributions over time. As urban populations grow and congestion increases, demand for Transurban's roads should remain resilient — making it an attractive core holding in a diversified SMSF portfolio.
UBS is a fan of the company. It has a buy rating and $14.85 price target on Transurban's shares.
