3 ASX 200 shares powering higher in 2026

These ASX 200 heavyweights are gaining momentum in 2026.

| More on:

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

The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) has been mixed in recent weeks, with gains in some sectors offset by weakness in others. Despite that, a handful of large caps continue to climb and push towards fresh highs.

Recent results, dividend updates, and stronger commodity prices have helped push some blue-chip stocks higher.

Here are 3 ASX 200 shares that continue to power ahead.

Hand dropping a mic.

Image source: Getty Images

Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA)

The CBA share price has jumped 17% over the past month and is up another 0.99% today to $179.96.

The rally followed the banking giant's half-year results earlier this month. CBA reported statutory net profit after tax (NPAT) of $5.41 billion and cash net profit of $5.45 billion, up 6% on the prior corresponding period.

Investors also welcomed a fully-franked interim dividend of $2.35 per share, up 4% year on year. Credit quality remained solid, with home loan arrears declining and most borrowers ahead on repayments.

While net interest margin edged down to 2.04%, the result reinforced CBA's position as the country's strongest major bank. Management also highlighted ongoing investments in technology to improve productivity and the customer experience.

Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS)

The Woodside share price has risen 15% over the past month and is up 0.66% today to $27.28. It recently touched an 18-month high of $27.34.

Part of the momentum has come from higher oil prices. Brent crude has climbed to a 6-month high amid geopolitical tensions and concerns about supply disruptions in the Middle East.

Earlier this year, Woodside reported record production for 2025 and continued progress across its major growth projects. The company's strong operating performance and project pipeline have helped underpin confidence in its longer-term outlook.

Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN)

The Evolution Mining share price is up 11% over the past month and has gained another 0.6% today to $15.03.

The gold miner impressed investors with its recent half-year results, reporting record profit and a higher dividend. Evolution also surprised the market with a stronger-than-expected dividend payout, which helped drive a sharp share price reaction earlier this month.

Support has also come from a rising gold price. UBS recently lifted its short-term gold price target to US$6,200 per ounce, citing strong demand. Spot gold prices have surged in 2026 as investors move toward safe-haven assets.

Brokers have noted Evolution's improving balance sheet and production outlook, particularly across its key assets. With gold near record levels and earnings momentum building, the stock has found plenty of buyers.

Motley Fool contributor Aaron Teboneras 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 Best Shares

Three happy girls on jumping motion with inflatable mattresses at the beach.
Best Shares

9 ASX 300 shares that tripled in FY26

These ASX 300 shares outperformed with triple-or-more share price growth.

Read more »

A person with a round-mouthed expression clutches a device screen and looks shocked and surprised.
Best Shares

3 ASX 300 shares that ripped 500% or more in FY26

Investors in these companies were laughing out loud amid a volatile market in FY26.

Read more »

Person handing out $100 notes, symbolising ex-dividend date.
Best Shares

1 ASX dividend stock down 18% I'd buy today!

This ASX dividend stock crashed through 2022 to 2025. But it looks like it has turned a corner this year.

Read more »

Rocket powering up and symbolising a rising share price.
Best Shares

If you own this ASX 200 stock, here's how to make a quick 38% return next week

A discounted share offer has opened a short-term investor window.

Read more »

A group of office workers pump the air to celebrate.
Best Shares

4 ASX 200 shares rated a strong buy and with upsides of up to 51%

Find out why brokers are so bullish about these ASX 200 shares.

Read more »

A businessman lights up the fifth star in a lineup, indicating positive share price for a top performer
Best Shares

Screaming buys: My top 5 favourite stocks in the world

I don't think you can get better than these five stocks.

Read more »

A young boy wearing a hat, sunnies and striped singlet looks fierce and flexes his arm in victory.
Broker Notes

ASX 200 energy share with 'material long-term upside' ahead: fundie

Blackwattle highlights an ASX 200 energy producer with strong long-term growth potential.

Read more »

One hundred dollar notes planted in the ground, representing ASX growth shares.
Best Shares

This 4% ASX stock is my top pick for growth and income in 2026

Stocks of this calibre are exceptionally rare...

Read more »