Finding stocks that can deliver strong returns over several years is not about chasing short-term hype. Instead, it is about owning quality businesses with clear long-term tailwinds, solid balance sheets, and proven execution.
With that in mind, here are 3 ASX shares that could be worth holding for the next 3 years. They come from different sectors, which helps spread risk without sacrificing upside potential.
Let's unpack.
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PLS Group Ltd (ASX: PLS)
PLS Group, previously known as Pilbara Minerals, is one of Australia's leading lithium producers and a key supplier to the global electric vehicle supply chain.
At the time of writing, PLS shares are trading at around $4.69, giving the company a market capitalisation of roughly $15 billion. Over the past 12 months, the share price has surged by more than 100%, reflecting a sharp recovery in lithium sentiment.
After a difficult period during the lithium downturn, sentiment has improved sharply. Lithium prices have rebounded from their lows, and investors are once again focusing on long-term EV demand rather than short-term price swings.
The company's Pilgangoora operation in Western Australia is a globally significant asset, and production volumes continue to underpin PLS' position as a major player in battery materials.
Some brokers remain cautious on valuation after the strong rally, but most agree that lithium demand growth over the next decade remains compelling. For investors with a long-time horizon, PLS offers direct exposure to one of the most important commodities of the energy transition.
Eagers Automotive Ltd (ASX: APE)
Eagers Automotive is Australia and New Zealand's largest automotive retail group, operating hundreds of dealerships across multiple brands.
Eagers shares are currently trading at around $26.85, valuing the business at approximately $7.6 billion. The stock has delivered a one-year return of more than 120%, driven by strong earnings and improved investor confidence.
While car sales can be cyclical, Eagers has built a diversified earnings base that includes used vehicles, servicing, parts, and finance. This provides some resilience during softer economic conditions.
The company has also benefited from disciplined capital management and strong cash generation. Brokers are mixed on near-term upside following the share price recovery, but many see Eagers as a high-quality operator with scale advantages that smaller competitors struggle to match.
For long-term investors, Eagers offers exposure to consumer spending with a proven management team and a strong market position.
Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN)
Evolution Mining is one of Australia's largest gold producers, with operations across Australia and Canada.
At present, Evolution shares are trading near $12.85, giving the company a market capitalisation of about $26 billion. Over the past year, the share price has climbed by more than 150%, supported by higher gold prices and improved operational performance.
Gold plays a unique role in portfolios, often performing well during periods of economic uncertainty or market volatility. Evolution's diversified asset base helps smooth production risks, while its balance sheet remains relatively robust compared to smaller peers.
Broker sentiment toward Evolution is generally neutral, reflecting higher operating costs and fluctuating gold prices. However, many analysts still view the stock as a reliable way to gain gold exposure within a diversified portfolio.
For investors seeking defensive characteristics alongside growth potential, Evolution stands out.
