3 exciting small-cap ASX shares to buy now

These small caps could be destined for big things according to analysts.

| More on:
A female ASX investor looks through a magnifying glass that enlarges her eye and holds her hand to her face with her mouth open as if looking at something of great interest or surprise.

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

Key points

  • Analysts are recommending Excite Technology Services, Firstwave Cloud Technology, and Nexsen as small cap ASX shares with strong growth potential and beneficial market positioning.
  • Excite Technology Services is esteemed for its robust cybersecurity offerings and record sales, while Firstwave Cloud Technology is noted for its advancements in AI-powered compliance management.
  • Nexsen, with its innovative nano-biotechnology diagnostic platform, provides a unique opportunity for early-stage investment in medical innovation.

If you have a penchant for investing at the small side of the market, then it could be worth checking out the three small cap ASX shares in this article.

That's because they have been named as buys by analysts. Here's what they are saying about them, courtesy of The Bull.

Excite Technology Services Ltd (ASX: EXT)

Analysts at Red Leaf Securities are recommending this small cap ASX share as a buy this week.

It is a cybersecurity company offering comprehensive cybersecurity services, including threat prevention, managed cloud and IT services, specialist digital forensics, incident response, forensic investigations, and accredited training.

Red Leaf thinks its shares are undervalued, especially given its record month in September. It said:

EXT offers cybersecurity services, including threat prevention. We like its outlook in response to strategic acquisitions, improving financial performance and growth prospects. It achieved record monthly sales of $7.14 million in September 2025. The stock appears undervalued relative to its growth potential. With an expanding product suite and broader market reach, EXT is well-positioned for scalable growth, making it an appealing opportunity for investors seeking exposure to the cybersecurity and technology sector.

Firstwave Cloud Technology Ltd (ASX: FCT)

Another small cap ASX share that could be a buy according to analysts is Firstwave Cloud Technology.

It is a provider of enterprise-grade network management, automation, audit, and cybersecurity software. There are an estimated 150,000 organisations using Firstwave software across 178 countries.

Red Leaf Securities thinks it could be a top pick for investors with a high tolerance for risk. It said:

FCT is a global software company. The company's recent capital raising of $2.85 million is aimed at accelerating its shift to artificial intelligence-powered compliance management, leveraging its user base of more than 150,000 to unlock potential annual recurring revenue. On top of the capital raising, the company secured a $2.5 million loan facility, which further enhances financial flexibility amid supporting initiatives. Recently, trading below book value, FirstWave combines value and growth potential. The stock was trading at 1.2 cents on October 16. The stock suits investors, who have an appetite for risk and are seeking exposure to innovative cybersecurity solutions. Our company was involved in the capital raising.

Nexsen (ASX: NXN)

This small cap ASX biotech share has been given a buy rating by analysts at Medallion.

It is a new listing on the Australian share market and offers early-stage exposure to a genuine medical innovation story according to Medallion. It said:

This nano-biotechnology company is developing an innovative point-of-care diagnostic platform. NXN listed on the ASX on October 14, 2025, after raising $8 million in capital and issuing shares in the initial public offering at 20 cents each. The shares closed at 28 cents on October 14 and were trading at 30 cents on October 16. NXN is a first mover in rapid, lab quality diagnostics. Nexsen's most advanced product is the GBS Rapid Sensor for the detection of Group B Streptococcus in expectant mothers. The company's nanotech platform provides scale as it can be expanded across multiple diseases. On a path to commercialisation, Nexsen offers rare early stage exposure to a genuine medical innovation story.

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 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 Small Cap Shares

three children wearing superhero costumes, complete with masks, pose with hands on hips wearing capes and sneakers on a running track.
Small Cap Shares

Why 2025 was the year of the ASX small-cap shares

The ASX All Ords Index returned 10.56% while the ASX Small Ords Index produced 24.96%.

Read more »

Beautiful young woman drinking fresh orange juice in kitchen.
Small Cap Shares

This exciting small cap ASX share just delivered its 7th consecutive record quarter

Let's see why the market is bidding this stock higher today.

Read more »

Two lab workers fist pump each other.
Small Cap Shares

This ASX small-cap stock just jumped 10%. Here's why

This ASX small-cap stock surged after the company posted a strong quarterly and half-year sales update.

Read more »

Small business family created to include people with disabilities in order to have equal opportunity as everyone else.
Small Cap Shares

Morgans names 2 small cap ASX stocks to watch

Big things could be on the cards for buyers of these small caps according to the broker.

Read more »

Happy couple enjoying ice cream in retirement.
Small Cap Shares

Top broker just initiated coverage on two ASX small-cap stocks with a buy recommendation

Why these small-cap stocks are a buy according to Bell Potter.

Read more »

Two kids playing with wooden blocks, symbolising small cap shares and short selling.
Small Cap Shares

Why Australian small-cap shares are shining

Why are investors pushing their chips in on small caps?

Read more »

Happy healthcare workers in a labs
Small Cap Shares

The ASX small-cap stock that could double in value in 2026

Here's why Bell Potter thinks this small-cap stock is a buy.

Read more »

three businessmen high five each other outside an office building with graphic images of graphs and metrics superimposed on the shot.
Small Cap Shares

Why I think this ASX small-cap stock is a bargain at $4.26

I think this undervalued stock is going places.

Read more »