With so many shares to choose from on the Australian share market, it can be difficult to decide which ones to buy. The good news is that brokers across the country are doing a lot of the hard work for you.
Three top ASX shares that leading brokers have named as buys this week are listed below. Here's why they are bullish on them:
Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST)
According to a note out of Bell Potter, its analysts have retained their buy rating and $30.00 price target on this gold miner's shares. This follows the release of a slightly softer than expected first quarter update. However, the broker still expects Northern Star to achieve its guidance for FY 2026 and has bumped its earnings estimates higher for the coming years to reflect a strong gold price outlook. Estimates for profits have lifted 7% for FY 2026, 17% for FY 2027, and 18% for FY 2028. The Northern Star share price is trading at $23.99 on Monday afternoon.
Qantas Airways Ltd (ASX: QAN)
A note out of Macquarie reveals that its analysts have upgraded this airline operator's shares to an outperform rating with an improved price target of $12.29. Macquarie believes that Qantas' performance in the first quarter was solid with good load factors in July and moderate capacity growth. It expects this to accelerate in second and third quarters. And should load factors or yields decline significantly, the broker expects capacity to be idled to protect profitability. Combined with softer oil prices, strong cost discipline, and the benefits of a newer fleet, Macquarie believes Qantas can grow its earnings per share by 11% in FY 2026. The Qantas share price is fetching $10.87 at the time of writing.
Zip Co Ltd (ASX: ZIP)
Another note out of Macquarie reveals that its analysts have initiated coverage on this buy now pay later provider's shares with a $4.85 price target. The broker highlights that Zip's investment appeal is driven by its US segment growth, which is currently outpacing peers. It highlights that US total transaction value (TTV) is growing >40% annually and still has a significant opportunity to acquire new customers in an underserved market. In light of this, it is forecasting Zip to continue to deliver rapid growth supported by increased product adoption, expansion of merchant network, increased customer engagement, and digital product innovation. The Zip share price is trading at $4.11 on Monday.
