It has been another busy week for many of Australia's top brokers. This has led to the release of a number of broker notes.
Three broker buy ratings that you might want to know more about are summarised below. Here's why brokers think these ASX shares are in the buy zone right now:
Catalyst Metals Ltd (ASX: CYL)
According to a note out of Bell Potter, its analysts have upgraded this gold miner's shares to a buy rating with an improved price target of $13.50. This follows the release of a strong quarterly update which came in ahead of the broker's expectations. Looking ahead, the broker feels that the company's Plutonic operation will become a long-term production hub that underpins a significant increase in output. In fact, Bell Potter believes Catalyst Metals will increase its production to 200,000 ounces a year by FY 2029. This compares to its current guidance for FY 2026 of 100,000 ounces to 110,000 ounces of gold. Combined with its updated gold price forecast, the broker believes this gold miner's shares offer significant value at present. The Catalyst Metals share price is trading at $8.82 on Friday afternoon.
Monadelphous Group Ltd (ASX: MND)
Another note out of Bell Potter reveals that its analysts have upgraded this diversified services company's shares to a buy rating with an improved price target of $33.00. Bell Potter has been pleased with the company's strong start to FY 2026. It notes that Monadelphous has won significantly more contracts than it was expecting. Financial year to date, Bell Potter estimates that the company's contract award value is ~$1,400 million. This compares to $1,550 million in the whole of FY 2025. The good news is that the company's current orderbook builds a strong foundation for earnings growth in the near-term that it feels is not reflected in consensus expectations. The Monadelphous share price is fetching $30.00 at the time of writing.
Zip Co Ltd (ASX: ZIP)
Analysts at Citi have retained their buy rating on this buy now pay later provider's shares with a trimmed price target of $4.30. According to the note, the broker believes that data out of the United States points to a strong performance from Zip Co during the last quarter. Citi highlights that app downloads hit record highs during December, which bodes well for its transaction growth in the massive market. In fact, the broker is predicting total transaction value (TTV) growth of 43% in the second quarter. Though, it wouldn't be surprised if Zip Co outperformed this. The Zip share price is trading at $3.09 this afternoon.
