3 cheap ASX shares for value investors to buy today

These three companies have disappointed investors, but lower valuations have changed the starting point for anyone willing to wait.

The ASX has moved higher over the past year, but not every share has joined the rally.

Some quality shares have been sold down heavily, leaving them trading on P/E ratios that look far more interesting than they did in the past.

Three ASX shares I think value investors could consider buying today are named below.

A woman peers through a bunch of recycled clothes on hangers and looks amazed.

Image source: Getty Images

Cochlear Ltd (ASX: COH)

Cochlear has had a tough period, and I do not think investors should pretend otherwise.

The hearing implant leader recently downgraded guidance after softer-than-expected trading conditions in developed markets. That has shaken confidence and pushed the share price down sharply.

I think Cochlear now looks more interesting for value investors.

According to CommSec, the shares trade on around 18.5 times consensus FY27 earnings. For a company with Cochlear's market position, brand strength, and long-term healthcare opportunity, I think that is a much more attractive valuation than investors have usually been offered.

The near-term recovery may take time. Hospital capacity issues, weaker referral activity, and softer demand in parts of the adult and seniors market are all weighing on the business. But the long-term need for hearing solutions has not gone away.

In fact, Cochlear continues to see adults and seniors as its largest long-term growth opportunity, and it remains confident in its innovation pipeline, including next-generation implants and a totally implantable cochlear implant.

For me, this looks like a high-quality ASX share going through a difficult patch, rather than a permanently impaired business.

James Hardie Industries plc (ASX: JHX)

James Hardie is another ASX share that looks more attractive after its reset.

The building products company has been dealing with a softer housing and renovation backdrop, particularly in North America. That is never easy for a business tied to construction activity.

But at around 16 times FY27 estimated earnings, I think the market may now be offering an attractive entry point for investors willing to look through the cycle.

James Hardie remains a leading player in exterior home and outdoor living solutions. Its fibre cement products have strong positions in key markets, and the AZEK acquisition gives it broader exposure to decking, railing, and outdoor living.

The company has also been focused on cost savings, manufacturing efficiency, and integration benefits. Management has highlighted progress on cost synergies and a longer-term commercial synergy opportunity from the AZEK deal.

If US housing conditions improve and the AZEK integration delivers, James Hardie shares could re-rate meaningfully over the medium term.

Endeavour Group Ltd (ASX: EDV)

Endeavour is the most defensive-looking option of the three in my view.

The owner of Dan Murphy's, BWS, and a large hotels business has been out of favour, but it still owns a collection of well-known brands and assets with everyday relevance.

According to CommSec, Endeavour trades on under 13 times FY27 estimated earnings. That looks inexpensive to me for a business with its scale, customer base, and potential for improvement.

There are issues to work through. The liquor retail market has been competitive, and Endeavour has been investing in lower prices to rebuild momentum. But I think that strategy could support customer loyalty and market share over time.

Its hotels business also gives the company a different earnings stream, and recent updates suggest that part of the group has been performing well. Endeavour has also been working through a strategic refresh, with a focus on price leadership, hotel renewals, cost simplification, and better use of its asset base.

For value investors, I think the lower valuation and recovery potential make Endeavour shares look appealing.

Foolish Takeaway

Value investing usually requires some patience and a willingness to buy when sentiment is weak.

That is what I see with these three ASX shares.

Cochlear, James Hardie, and Endeavour all have issues to work through, but I do not think their long-term prospects have disappeared.

At today's lower valuations, I think they could offer attractive recovery potential for investors who are prepared to wait.

Motley Fool contributor Grace Alvino has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Cochlear. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Cochlear. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

More on Cheap Shares

Three women athletes lie flat on a running track as though they have had a long hard race where they have fought hard but lost the event.
Cheap Shares

These 3 ASX 200 shares have lost 49%+ in 2026. Are any now bargains?

The real question: are today's lowered expectations low enough yet?

Read more »

A woman in her late 30s holds her hands out either side with the palms up as if indicating she doesn't know the answer to a question.
Cheap Shares

Treasury Wine Estates vs Temple & Webster: Which beaten down ASX stock is better value?

Treasury Wine Estates and Temple & Webster have both tumbled, but I think one offers more compelling value for a…

Read more »

Stressed businessman sits in panic amid digital stock market financial background.
Cheap Shares

3 ASX shares down 40% to 80% I'd buy on the cheap

I look at three beaten-down ASX growth shares that have caught my attention after a difficult year.

Read more »

Red arrow going down on a stock market table which symbolises a falling share price.
Cheap Shares

2 cheap ASX shares near 52-week lows I'd buy today

I think this is a wonderful time to invest in these undervalued stocks!

Read more »

Man with a hand on his head looks at a red stock market chart showing a falling share price.
Cheap Shares

2 ASX shares down over 50% that I would buy

I take a closer look at two fallen growth shares I would be comfortable buying today.

Read more »

Buy now written on a red key with a shopping trolley on an Apple keyboard.
Cheap Shares

2 ASX shares tipped to grow 30% or more in the next 12 months

These stocks are expected to deliver great returns…

Read more »

Two kids are selling big ideas from a lemonade stand on the side of the road for cheap!
Cheap Shares

2 cheap ASX shares near 52-week lows I'd buy today

I think these stocks are trading far too cheaply!

Read more »

Red buy button on an Apple keyboard with a finger on it.
Cheap Shares

2 ASX shares highly recommended to buy: Experts

These businesses are well-liked by analysts…

Read more »