$3k to invest? 2 ASX shares to consider buying in 2026

These shares have been sold off and could offer major upside according to analysts.

If you have $3,000 ready to invest, recent market weakness could be creating some compelling opportunities.

A number of high-quality ASX shares have pulled back sharply from their highs, despite continuing to execute on their long-term strategies.

For investors willing to look through short-term volatility, this could be a chance to buy into strong businesses at more attractive prices.

Here are two ASX shares that could be worth considering in 2026 according to analysts.

A businessman looking at his digital tablet or strategy planning in hotel conference lobby. He is happy at achieving financial goals.

Image source: Getty Images

NextDC Ltd (ASX: NXT)

The first ASX share that could be a standout option is NextDC.

The data centre operator continues to benefit from powerful structural tailwinds, including cloud adoption and artificial intelligence demand. Its latest results highlighted further strong growth, with revenue up 13% and underlying EBITDA rising 9% for the half.

More importantly, the company's contracted utilisation surged and it now has a record forward order book, which is expected to drive a material uplift in revenue and earnings over the coming years.

Despite this, NextDC shares are down around 30% from their highs to $12.54, reflecting broader pressure on growth stocks rather than a deterioration in fundamentals.

The team at Morgans sees significant upside and has put a buy rating on its shares with a $20.50 price target. This implies potential upside of over 60% for investors over the next 12 months.

Temple & Webster Group Ltd (ASX: TPW)

Another ASX share that analysts think investors should consider is Temple & Webster.

The online furniture and homewares retailer has come under significant pressure in recent months, with its shares down approximately 75% from their highs to $6.73. However, its underlying performance suggests the business is still moving in the right direction.

Last month, the company reported revenue growth of nearly 20% for the first half and continues to gain market share. The latter reached record levels of 2.9% and shows little sign of slowing.

It is also seeing strong traction in key growth areas, including home improvement and commercial sales, while its expansion into New Zealand is already generating early revenue.

Importantly, Temple & Webster operates a capital-light model with no inventory risk and has a strong cash position, giving it flexibility to continue investing in growth.

Macquarie is positive on its outlook and has put an outperform rating on its shares with a $13.70 price target. Based on its current share price, this suggests that its shares could double in value over the next 12 months.

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in Nextdc and Temple & Webster Group. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Macquarie Group and Temple & Webster Group. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Macquarie Group. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Temple & Webster Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

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