When it comes to investing, not every stock is suitable for everyone.
Some ASX shares are more volatile, more speculative, or simply harder to understand.
But there are a handful of shares that are so reliable, resilient, and easy to grasp that I would be comfortable recommending them even to my own mum.
Here are three ASX shares that fit that description.
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Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL)
Coles is one of Australia's two dominant supermarket operators. With a vast national store network and an essential product offering, it is about as defensive as a business can get. People still need to buy groceries regardless of whether the economy is booming or slowing, which helps underpin steady revenues and dividends. This was evident during the COVID pandemic.
Coles has also been investing in supply chain improvements and automation, which should support productivity over the coming years.
Morgan Stanley is bullish on the supermarket giant. It has an overweight rating and $26.80 price target on its shares.
REA Group Ltd (ASX: REA)
Another ASX share that I would recommend to my mother is REA Group. It owns realestate.com.au, the undisputed leader in online property listings. Even though housing markets move in cycles, REA has managed to grow revenue and earnings consistently thanks to its dominant market share and pricing power.
What makes REA Group particularly safe in my view is its entrenched position. Competitors have tried to take market share, but none come close to REA's reach or brand strength. For example, in FY 2025, it boasted 132.2 million average monthly visits. This is 4 times more monthly visits than the nearest competitor on average. And with property being such a key part of Australian life and interest rates heading lower, it appears well placed to continue its growth long into the future.
Bell Potter is a fan of the company. It has a buy rating and $284.00 price target on its shares.
Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS)
Finally, Telstra is an ASX share I would be comfortable recommending. It is the nation's largest telecommunications provider, with a market-leading mobile network and millions of customers across mobile, broadband, and enterprise services. Telecoms may not be the most exciting industry, but that's exactly what makes Telstra appealing for conservative investors.
The company generates steady cash flows from recurring subscriptions, has a strong balance sheet, and regularly pays dividends. And with its Connected Future 30 strategy expected to drive sustainable growth, it could be a great time to invest.
Macquarie currently has an outperform rating and $5.04 price target on the telco giant's shares.
