Not all ASX stocks are created equal, but some stand out for very different reasons.

Breville Group Ltd (ASX: BRG) is quietly building a global premium brand, while Lovisa Holdings Ltd (ASX: LOV) is scaling a fast-fashion jewellery model across the world.

Both growth stocks have faced pressure recently, but their international growth stories could set them up for strong long-term returns.

Breville: Compelling long-term play

Starting with Breville. This ASX stock is often labelled as a kitchen appliance company, but that undersells what's really happening.

Breville has spent years positioning itself as a premium global brand. Its products don't compete on price. Instead, they focus on quality, design, and performance. That strategy has helped it carve out a loyal customer base and expand successfully into key international markets, particularly the US.

As brand recognition grows, so does its ability to scale. This is where the long-term opportunity lies. Building a brand takes time, but once established, it becomes a powerful competitive advantage that's difficult for rivals to replicate.

That brand strength can translate into pricing power, higher margins, and sustained growth over time. It's not a quick win, but it's a compelling long-term play.

Analysts at Morgans are positive on the outlook, maintaining a buy rating and a $40.65 price target on the ASX stock. That suggests a 39% upside at current price levels.

Lovisa: Rapid turnover and trend agility

Then there's Lovisa, which has taken a very different path, but with equally global ambitions.

This $2.5 billion ASX stock has built a fast-fashion jewellery empire, driven by a model that emphasises rapid product turnover and trend responsiveness. Its ability to quickly adapt to changing consumer tastes has been a key driver of success.

The real story, though, is expansion. Lovisa has rolled out stores across Europe, the US, and Asia, and still has a long runway for further growth. This international footprint is what makes the business so appealing over the long term.

However, the market has become more cautious.

Cost inflation, softer consumer spending, and concerns about margins have weighed on sentiment. Retail is highly sensitive to economic conditions, and Lovisa is not immune to those pressures.

That caution is reflected in analyst views. Bell Potter Securities recently retained a hold rating on the ASX stock but cut its price target to $24 from $33.50, a notable downgrade. From current levels, that suggests modest downside in the near term.

Still, short-term challenges don't necessarily derail a long-term growth story. If Lovisa can continue executing its global rollout and maintain its fast-fashion edge, the business could keep expanding well beyond its current footprint.

The post 2 ASX growth stocks to buy now and hold until 2036 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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Motley Fool contributor Marc Van Dinther 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 Lovisa. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Lovisa. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

When it comes to long-term investing, quality ASX shares tend to rise to the top. Businesses with strong competitive advantages, consistent earnings, and the ability to reinvest for growth often deliver the best returns over time.

While markets can be unpredictable in the short term, high-quality companies can keep compounding for years.

Here are two ASX shares that could be worth considering for long-term investors.

REA Group Ltd (ASX: REA)

REA Group is a prime example of an ASX share that could consistently compound over years. It operates Australia's leading online property marketplace and has built a dominant position that is incredibly difficult to disrupt. Its platform is deeply embedded in the real estate ecosystem, making it the go-to destination for buyers, sellers, and agents.

That dominance translates into pricing power. Even during softer property cycles, REA has historically grown revenue through premium listings and value-added services. This ASX share is not just exposed to housing activity; it actively monetises it.

The business has also continued to evolve. By adding new tools, data insights, and digital services, REA is strengthening its offering and deepening customer engagement. This reinforces its competitive moat and supports long-term growth.

With high margins, a leading market position, and structural exposure to housing demand, REA appears well placed to keep delivering over the next decade. Analysts at Bell Potter Securities recently placed a buy rating on the stock with a $211 price target, implying potential upside of around 21% from current levels.

TechnologyOne Ltd (ASX: TNE)

Another high-quality name to watch is TechnologyOne. The enterprise software company has been a standout performer over the years, even after experiencing a pullback through late 2025 and early 2026.

The $10 billion ASX tech share provides software solutions to government agencies, universities, and large organisations. Its transition to a cloud-based software-as-a-service (SaaS) model has transformed the business, driving predictable and growing recurring revenue.

Its latest financial performance highlights that strength. The company delivered 18% revenue growth to $554.6 million and a 19% increase in profit before tax to $181.5 million. Consistency at that level is a key reason investors have been drawn to the stock.

One of its biggest advantages is customer stickiness. Once its software is embedded into an organisation's operations, switching providers becomes costly and complex. That leads to high retention rates and supports long-term earnings growth.

There's also an international growth angle. TechnologyOne has been expanding in the UK, which could provide an additional runway for growth in the years ahead.

With strong margins, recurring revenue, and a scalable platform, TechnologyOne has the characteristics of a business that can continue compounding over the long term.

Most analysts see the ASX share as a buy or strong buy. The average 12-month price target sits around $32, which points to a 6% upside. The most bullish price target is $38.70, 27% above the current share price.

The post 2 elite ASX shares to buy in April and hold for the next decade appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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Motley Fool contributor Marc Van Dinther 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 Technology One. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Technology One. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

ASX financials stock Netwealth Group Ltd (ASX: NWL) is starting to win back investor attention after a rough stretch.

The ASX financials stock has jumped 20% over the past month, a sharp turnaround after a difficult period that saw it fall 23% over the past six months.

The recent rebound suggests confidence is returning, with investors warming again to Netwealth's ability to keep attracting adviser and client funds, even in volatile market conditions.

So, what's behind the renewed optimism?

Netwealth operates an investment platform that allows financial advisers to manage client portfolios, superannuation, and wealth accounts in one place. In simple terms, the $6 billion ASX financial stock sits at the centre of adviser-client relationships, providing the infrastructure that powers modern wealth management.

That positioning is a major strength. Once advisers and their clients are onboarded, they tend to stick around. Switching platforms can be complex and disruptive, which gives Netwealth strong customer retention and a steady stream of recurring revenue.

Its latest quarterly update reinforced that strength. The company reported funds under administration (FUA) of $125.8 billion, up 20.9% on the prior corresponding period. Importantly, this growth isn't just being driven by rising markets. Netwealth also continues to win adviser market share, highlighting the competitiveness of its platform.

Stable margins, predictable cash flow

Growth is one thing, but profitability is where this ASX financials stock really stands out. Netwealth benefits from a recurring fee model, high adviser retention, and a sticky client base. That combination supports stable margins and predictable cash flow. Attributes that long-term investors tend to value highly.

It's a model designed to compound steadily over time rather than rely on short-term bursts of performance. That strength is also flowing through to shareholders. Netwealth recently lifted its interim dividend by around 20%, reinforcing its appeal as a reliable income and growth hybrid.

Innovation is key

Of course, there are risks to consider. Competition in the platform space is intense, with rivals constantly pushing on fees and features.

Pricing pressure is an ongoing challenge, and maintaining a technological edge requires continuous investment. Fall behind on innovation, and market share gains can quickly reverse.

It's also worth noting that while Netwealth has strong growth credentials, the ASX financials stock tends to trade at more conservative valuations than some high-flying tech names. That can limit upside during market rallies, but it also reflects a more measured, consistent growth profile.

What do the experts think?

According to TradingView data, most brokers rate the ASX financials stock as a buy or strong buy. The average 12-month price target sits at $28.22, implying potential upside of around 11% from current levels. The most bullish forecast sits at $35.40, which suggests a 40% upside at the time of writing.

Bell Potter just retained its buy rating with a $30.00 price target, while Morgans has an accumulate rating and a $29.00 target following the latest quarterly update. That points to a 18% and 14% upside respectively.

The post Experts say this ASX financials stock could soar up to 40% appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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Motley Fool contributor Marc Van Dinther 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 Netwealth Group. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Netwealth Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC) shares have been back in the spotlight.

After a strong run, the rally hit a speed bump on Monday, with shares slipping 1.5% to $45.49. But zoom out and the momentum is clear. The tech stock is up 14% over the past five trading days and 9% over the past month, as renewed interest in tech names lifts sentiment.

That said, the bigger picture is more mixed. WiseTech shares remain down 34% year to date and 46% over the past six months.

It's been a volatile stretch, raising the key question: is this a recovery just getting started, or a bounce that fades?

Mission-critical software

Start with the fundamentals. WiseTech sits at the centre of global trade through its CargoWise platform, used by freight forwarders, customs brokers, and logistics operators around the world. This is not plug-and-play software. Once it's embedded, it becomes mission-critical to daily operations.

That creates a powerful business model. Customers are unlikely to switch, driving high retention, recurring revenue, and strong pricing power. In software terms, it's about as "sticky" as it gets.

The broader industry tailwinds only strengthen the case for WiseTech shares. Global supply chains are becoming more complex, more regulated, and increasingly digital. That trend plays directly into WiseTech's hands, reinforcing its long-term growth runway.

So why have WiseTech shares been under pressure?

The short answer: macro, not micro. The recent decline has largely been driven by external factors rather than any fundamental deterioration in the business. Higher interest rates have weighed on tech valuations, while broader uncertainty has led investors to rotate away from growth stocks like WiseTech shares.

There have also been concerns around artificial intelligence and rising competition, which have impacted sentiment across the sector. Add in geopolitical tensions – particularly around global shipping routes – and anything tied to international trade has faced extra scrutiny.

But none of these factors change how WiseTech's platform is used or the role it plays in global logistics.

That said, WiseTech shares are not risk-free. Like many high-growth tech companies, WiseTech trades on elevated expectations. Any slowdown in growth or execution misstep could quickly impact the share price. There have also been periods of management-related noise, which can unsettle investors.

What do experts think?

Still, the analyst community remains firmly in the bullish camp.

According to TradingView data, 15 out of 17 analysts rate WiseTech shares as a buy or strong buy, with just two sitting on hold. The average price target is around $78.00, implying potential upside of roughly 72% from current levels.

At the extreme end, the most bullish forecast sits at $121.16, suggesting upside of as much as 166%.

So, is it still a buy?

For long-term investors, the case remains intact. WiseTech is a high-quality, globally relevant software business with strong structural tailwinds. The recent volatility says more about the market than the company itself.

But after a sharp rebound, expect the ride to remain anything but smooth.

The post WiseTech shares are surging again, is it too late to buy now? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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Motley Fool contributor Marc Van Dinther has positions in WiseTech Global. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended WiseTech Global. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended WiseTech Global. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS) shares have been hovering near record highs since the start of April. At the time of writing they're trading around $5.34, just shy of a nine-year peak.

Telstra shares have experienced a solid run. The telco is up almost 10% year to date and 22% over the past 12 months. That comfortably outpaces the broader S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO), which has gained 3% in 2026 and 15% over the same period.

So, has Telstra already done the heavy lifting, or is there still more upside ahead?

Unmatched mobile scale

Start with the positives. Telstra remains Australia's dominant telecommunications provider, with unmatched scale across mobile networks and infrastructure. That leadership translates into real pricing power and the company is actively using it.

Recent price increases on mobile plans are a key driver. Thanks to relatively sticky customers, those higher prices are expected to flow through to both revenue and margins. In a high-cost environment, that ability to pass on increases is a major advantage.

Telstra also benefits from operating in a defensive sector. Connectivity is no longer discretionary. Whether economic conditions are strong or weak, consumers and businesses continue to pay for mobile and internet services. That makes the company a reliable option during periods of market volatility.

Longtime dividend favourite

Income is another major part of the appeal. Telstra shares have long been a favourite among dividend investors, supported by consistent cash flow and a mature operating model. Its payout ratio sits close to 100% of earnings, highlighting its focus on returning capital to shareholders.

The company pays two dividends annually. Its most recent interim dividend came in at 10.5 cents per share, largely franked, and management is guiding for a full-year dividend of 20 cents for FY26. That combination of yield and reliability continues to attract income-focused investors.

Slow steady expansion

But there are limits to the story of Telstra shares.

Telstra is not a high-growth business. As a mature operator, its earnings expansion tends to be gradual rather than explosive. Investors shouldn't expect rapid capital appreciation, this is more about steady compounding.

Competition also remains a constant pressure. Rivals continue to target market share across both mobile and broadband. While Telstra's network advantage is significant, it isn't unassailable. Any misstep could give competitors an opening.

There's also a ceiling to pricing power. Push prices too aggressively, and even loyal customers may start to reassess their options. Managing that balance will be critical.

So, what's the verdict?

Telstra shares have already delivered strong gains, and while the outlook remains stable, upside from here could be more modest. Most brokers currently sit on a hold rating, with an average price target of $5.26, slightly below the current share price.

That said, Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG) analysts take a more optimistic view. They rate Telstra as an outperform, expecting recent price increases to support both earnings and dividends. Their 12-month price target of $5.64 implies modest upside of around 5.5% and could bring the total earning, including a yield of roughly 3.7, to over 9%.

In short, Telstra remains what it has always been: a dependable, income-generating stock with defensive qualities. Just don't expect it to turn into a rocket ship anytime soon.

The post Up 22%, are Telstra shares still worth a buy? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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Motley Fool contributor Marc Van Dinther 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 Macquarie Group. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Macquarie Group and Telstra Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

If I had to pick one ASX dividend share to own through every market cycle, it would be Transurban Group (ASX: TCL).

This is not a high-flying growth story or a market darling chasing headlines. It's something far more valuable for long-term investors: predictability.

When you're building a portfolio designed to last decades, boring can be beautiful. And Transurban is about as close as it gets to "set and forget" on the ASX.

Operator of city's arteries

At its core, this $42 billion ASX dividend share is a major toll road operator, owning and running critical motorways across Australia and North America.

These are not optional assets. They are the arteries of modern cities, used every day by commuters, freight operators, and essential services. That level of necessity creates a powerful foundation of recurring demand. Because drivers don't simply stop using roads in a downturn, the company's cash flows tend to be remarkably resilient.

On top of that, many of its toll roads operate under long-term concession agreements, with pricing often linked to inflation. That means revenue doesn't just stay stable, it can gradually grow even when economic conditions are uncertain.

Strong payout record

This is exactly what income investors look for in an ASX dividend share: durability first, growth second.

Transurban has also built a strong track record of returning capital to shareholders through consistent distributions. While the yield moves with the share price and investment cycle, the underlying focus remains the same—sustainable payouts supported by real, tangible infrastructure assets rather than financial engineering.

For FY26, the company has guided to a distribution of 69 cents per security, implying a forward yield of around 4.9%. It recently paid an interim distribution of 34 cents per security, unfranked, reinforcing its steady payout rhythm.

Importantly, this is not a static business. Transurban continues to reinvest heavily in expanding and upgrading its road networks. As cities grow, congestion worsens, and infrastructure demands increase, its assets become even more valuable. That creates a long-term growth engine layered on top of its defensive earnings base.

Foolish Takeaway

Of course, no investment is without risk. Transurban carries significant debt, which is typical for infrastructure operators but does make it sensitive to interest rate changes. Higher borrowing costs can weigh on returns and investor sentiment.

Regulatory risk is also ever-present, as toll pricing and concession terms ultimately depend on government agreements. And while traffic volumes are generally stable, they are not immune to economic slowdowns or major disruptions.

Even so, the long-term case for the ASX dividend share remains compelling. This is a business built on essential infrastructure, supported by population growth, urbanisation, and inflation-linked revenue streams. It doesn't require perfect conditions to perform. It simply requires people to keep moving.

The post Which ASX dividend share could you buy and hold forever? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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Motley Fool contributor Marc Van Dinther 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 Transurban Group. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Transurban Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

It's been a wild ride for investors in Zip Co Ltd (ASX: ZIP) shares. The Zip share price has surged another 9.2% to $2.55 during Monday afternoon trade, capping off a remarkable run.

Over the past five trading days, the buy now, pay later provider is up 36%, and an eye-catching 69% over the past month alone. Zoom out, and the picture gets even more volatile. Zip shares are down 40% over the past six months, yet are still up 50.9% over the past year. Hectic barely covers it.

So, what's driving the latest rally and do experts think there's more to come?

Positive surprise and record cash

The catalyst was Zip's third-quarter update, which appears to have reset market expectations. The company reported record cash EBITDA of $65.1 million for the quarter, marking a 41.5% increase on the prior corresponding period. That kind of growth tends to get attention, especially in a sector that has spent the past few years under pressure.

Even more importantly, management of Zip shares upgraded its full-year outlook. Zip now expects group cash EBITDA of at least $260 million, up from previous guidance of around $248.6 million. In a market that rewards positive surprises, that upgrade has clearly struck a chord with investors.

Scaling profitability

There's also a broader narrative at play. Zip has spent the past few years tightening its operations, exiting underperforming markets, and focusing on profitability. The latest result suggests those efforts are paying off, with stronger margins and improved cost control starting to flow through.

On the strength side, Zip is showing it can scale profitably while maintaining solid customer growth. Its core markets are performing well, and improving credit quality and disciplined lending are helping to reduce risk. If the business can sustain this balance, Zip shares start to look far more compelling than they did during the sector's downturn.

But the risks haven't disappeared. Buy now, pay later remains a cyclical and competitive space, sensitive to consumer spending and economic conditions. Any slowdown in retail activity or deterioration in credit performance could quickly impact earnings. The recent share price surge also raises the question of how much good news is already priced in Zip shares.

That leaves investors weighing momentum against sustainability.

What next for Zip shares?

For now, the broker community is firmly in the bullish camp. Nine out of 11 analysts rate Zip shares as a strong buy, with the remaining two sitting at buy. The average 12-month price target stands at $3.80, implying around 49% upside from current levels. The most optimistic forecast goes as high as $5.40. That's more than double the stock's current price.

After such a rapid run, volatility is almost guaranteed. But if Zip continues to deliver on earnings and maintain its improved discipline, the rally may not be over just yet.

The post Up another 9%, how much higher can Zip shares go? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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Motley Fool contributor Marc Van Dinther 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.

ASX stock Qube Holdings Ltd (ASX: QUB) rose 0.7% to $5.05 during early afternoon trade on Monday, leaving the logistics giant just shy of its all-time high of $5.07.

The move extends a strong run for the ASX stock. Qube is now up 31% over the past 12 months, as investors continue to reward its steady exposure to Australia's import and export supply chains.

Let's take a closer look at Monday's move.

Geopolitical and weather hit

Qube is Australia's leading integrated logistics provider, with operations spanning freight movement, warehousing, and supply chain services across key trade routes.

Monday's share price gain came after the ASX stock issued an operational update highlighting modest short-term earnings headwinds. The company flagged a $10 to $20 million EBIT impact linked to ongoing geopolitical disruption in the Middle East, alongside a further $3 to $5 million hit from cyclones in Western Australia and storms in New Zealand.

While these figures sound material, they are relatively small in the context of Qube's multi-billion-dollar earnings base.

Strong contractual frameworks

Importantly, management emphasised that the business has not experienced any operational interruptions. Instead, the issues are being absorbed through its diversified operations and strong contractual frameworks.

Many of Qube's agreements include cost pass-through mechanisms and pricing levers that allow it to recover higher fuel and shipping-related expenses over time, albeit with some timing delays.

That timing gap is the key nuance. While short-term profitability may fluctuate, most of the cost pressures are expected to be temporary. If conditions stabilise, some of these impacts could unwind in FY27, providing a potential earnings tailwind.

What next for Qube shares?

Beyond near-term volatility, Qube continues to highlight longer-term growth opportunities. One area of increasing focus is its role in supporting alternative energy projects. The demand for specialist logistics and infrastructure services is expected to grow.

Management of the ASX stock believes this segment could become a meaningful contributor over time. It could leverage its existing capabilities in complex supply chain coordination.

Looking ahead, Qube remains confident of delivering underlying earnings growth in FY26, even as external conditions remain uneven. The outlook is not without uncertainty, particularly around fuel costs and global trade volumes. However, the company maintains that most headwinds are cyclical rather than structural.

Meanwhile, progress continues on its previously announced scheme with the Macquarie Asset Management (MAM) consortium. The group led by MAM plans to acquire 100% of Qube shares at $5.20 cash per share.

Management reiterated that the scheme remains on track and unaffected by the updated trading commentary. Regulatory approvals are still progressing in line with the timeline set out earlier this year.

Foolish bottom line

For investors in the ASX stock, the takeaway is a familiar one: short-term noise, long-term infrastructure.

Qube's steady march toward its record high reflects a market increasingly willing to look through temporary disruption and focus on the structural growth story beneath it.

The post Why this $9 billion ASX stock is edging closer to record highs today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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Motley Fool contributor Marc Van Dinther 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.

Early retirement at 57 might sound ambitious, but a tightly built portfolio that blends growth, income, and selective risk can do more of the heavy lifting than you think.

The idea isn't complexity. It's owning the right mix and sticking with it.

Here's a punchy strategy designed for investors targeting early retirement.

Growth, income anchor, and outsized gains

Start with WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC) as your primary growth engine. This is a high-quality software business embedded in global logistics, with strong pricing power and long-term expansion potential. It's the kind of company you hold for years and let compounding work in the background.

To balance that, Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) plays the role of income anchor. If you're serious about early retirement, you'll eventually need reliable cash flow, and CBA's dividends can help fill that gap. It's not about explosive growth here—it's about dependability.

For a higher-risk, higher-reward tilt, PLS Group Ltd (ASX: PLS), formerly known as Pilbara Minerals, adds exposure to lithium and the broader electrification trend. Commodity stocks can be volatile, but that volatility is exactly where outsized gains can come from if the cycle plays in your favour.

Blue chips, international tech, and infrastructure

On the ETF side, Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS) forms the core of the early retirement portfolio. It provides low-cost exposure to the broader Australian market, helping smooth out individual stock risk while still delivering solid long-term returns.

It's heavily weighted toward banks and miners, which dominate the local market. BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) and CBA are typically the two biggest positions, alongside CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL) and the major banks.

To tap into global innovation, BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ) gives you access to leading US tech names and AI-driven growth that simply isn't available on the ASX. This adds a powerful international growth layer. Tech dominates the portfolio, so returns can be powerful in a bull market, but expect volatility when sentiment shifts.

Rounding things out, iShares Global Infrastructure ETF (ASX: IFRA) introduces a more defensive element. While holdings are more spread out, you'll typically find companies involved in toll roads, airports, pipelines, and electricity grids.

Infrastructure assets tend to generate steady income and can act as a buffer during inflationary periods, which becomes increasingly important as you approach retirement.

Foolish Takeaway

What makes this combination effective is how each piece plays a role. The growth names push your portfolio higher over time, the income exposure helps prepare for life after work, and the diversification reduces the risk of relying on any single outcome.

Add in a disciplined approach – regular investing, reinvesting dividends, and staying invested through market swings – and the path to early retirement at 57 starts to look far more achievable than most people assume.

The post This ASX shares and ETF mix could be the key to early retirement appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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Motley Fool contributor Marc Van Dinther has positions in BHP Group and WiseTech Global. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF, CSL, and WiseTech Global and is short shares of BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF and WiseTech Global. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended BHP Group and CSL. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

For investors willing to look beyond the obvious winners, a handful of lesser-known ASX AI shares offer the kind of catalysts, operating leverage, and market re-rating potential that could drive outsized returns.

The ASX tech rally has been anything but broad. While WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC) shares and others like Xero Ltd (ASX: XRO) have surged on the back of the AI and SaaS boom, a second wave of opportunities may be quietly forming.

Here are three ASX AI shares that stand out.

Macquarie Technology Group Ltd (ASX: MAQ)

First up is Macquarie Technology Group. This ASX AI share is emerging as one of the clearest "picks and shovels" plays on artificial intelligence. As demand for AI accelerates, so too does the need for data centres, cloud infrastructure, and secure sovereign hosting. These are all areas where Macquarie Technology is investing heavily.

Unlike many speculative AI shares, this is a business with real earnings and tangible demand drivers. As new capacity comes online and utilisation rates increase, earnings could scale quickly.

If that happens, the market may start valuing it more like established data centre leader NextDC Ltd (ASX: NXT) — and that could mean significant upside.

Objective Corporation Ltd (ASX: OCL)

Next ASX AI share is Objective Corporation. This is a classic under-the-radar SaaS compounder, like WiseTech shares. Objective provides document management and compliance software, primarily to government and regulated industries — making its customer base incredibly sticky.

While it doesn't grab headlines, it has all the hallmarks of a long-term winner: recurring revenue, high margins, and disciplined growth. Importantly, the rise of AI is likely to enhance its offering, particularly in automating workflows and extracting insights from large volumes of documents.

Because this AI share flies under the radar, Objective hasn't enjoyed the same valuation expansion as some of its peers. But if it continues to execute, investors may start to re-rate the stock accordingly.

Appen Ltd (ASX: APX)

Finally, there's Appen. This is the most speculative of the three ASX AI shares, but also the one with the highest potential upside. Appen provides training data used in artificial intelligence models, placing it right in the middle of the AI ecosystem.

After a sharp decline in recent years, expectations are now extremely low. That creates an interesting setup. If demand for high-quality training data rebounds or the company secures new partnerships, even modest improvements in performance could trigger a sharp re-rating.

Of course, the risks remain elevated, particularly as the AI landscape evolves. But for investors with a higher risk tolerance, Appen could offer significant leverage to any recovery in sentiment.

Foolish Takeaway

The bottom line is that the ASX AI rally may still have further to run, but the biggest gains might not come from the likes of WiseTech and Xero that have already surged.

Instead, it could be these under-the-radar ASX AI shares, operating just beneath the surface, that deliver the next wave of standout returns.

The post 3 under-the-radar ASX AI shares that could be the next WiseTech appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• ASX 200 tech shares rocket 13% as long-awaited sector rebound accelerates
• 6 ASX All Ords shares elevated to strong buy status after March sell-off
• Up 109% since November, are Appen shares still a buy today?
• 6 ASX shares at 52-week lows: Buy, hold, or sell?

Motley Fool contributor Marc Van Dinther has positions in WiseTech Global. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Appen, Objective, WiseTech Global, and Xero. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Objective, WiseTech Global, and Xero. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

This $29 billion ASX gold stock has lost some shine recently. Shares in Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN) are now down 33% from recent highs, but still up 57% over 12 months.

Gold surged through 2025 as investors piled into the safe-haven asset. But since peaking in late January, the gold price has pulled back roughly 20% during the first weeks of the Iran war, dragging many ASX gold stocks lower along with it.

That weakness could be an opportunity. Here are three reasons investors may want to consider Evolution Mining this month.

Volatility is normal, bigger picture still holds

Recent price swings might look concerning, but they're not unusual.

According to VanEck, gold often behaves this way during periods of geopolitical stress:

Gold's March performance surprised many investors. Despite a sharp escalation in geopolitical tensions, gold prices pulled back after briefly retesting record highs. That kind of price action may seem counterintuitive, but it is not unusual in periods of crisis.

In other words, short-term volatility doesn't necessarily break the long-term trend. Once markets settle, the same drivers that helped push gold to record levels — including macro uncertainty and demand for safe-haven assets — are still firmly in place.

Evolution will be one of the ASX gold stocks to take advantage of that.

Record cash flow highlights operational strength

Evolution Mining isn't just riding the gold price. The ASX gold stock is also executing well operationally.

Its latest quarterly update delivered record cash flow, underscoring the strength of its asset base and cost discipline. Strong cash generation gives the company flexibility to reinvest, reduce debt, and return capital to shareholders.

That kind of financial performance can help support the share price even when the commodity cycle turns volatile.

Solid upside plus income

Morgans just upgraded the ASX gold stock from hold to accumulate. The brokers believes that the recent weakness across the gold sector "has uncovered value in a high-quality name". Morgans did trim its 12-month target from $17.16 to $16.10, suggesting a 20% upside at current levels.

Bell Potter also remains positive on the outlook. It has retained a buy rating on the ASX 200 gold stock, with a slightly reduced price target of $16.45.

And there's more. The broker is also forecasting a 3.5% dividend yield, lifting the total potential return to over 25%. For investors looking for both growth and income, that's an appealing combination.

Foolish Takeaway

ASX gold stocks may have cooled in recent weeks, but the long-term thesis hasn't disappeared.

With strong cash flow, supportive macro drivers, and broker-backed upside, Evolution Mining could be worth a closer look this April.

The post 3 reasons to buy this ASX gold stock in April appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Tuesday
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• 4 ASX 200 shares newly upgraded this week
• 3 ASX gold shares to buy after the recent pullback

Motley Fool contributor Marc Van Dinther 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.

This ASX car stock has been on the move.

Shares in Eagers Automotive Ltd (ASX: APE) have climbed roughly 13% over the past month. That's helped narrow its loss for 2026 to around 3%. Zoom out, however, and the picture looks far stronger, as the ASX auto stock is still up about 36% over the past 12 months.

So what's going on? One driver could be the global fuel crunch and the knock-on effect it's having on electric vehicle demand.

Exposure to fast-growing EV brand

Eagers is the largest automotive retail group in Australia. The company owns and operates a large network of new and used motor vehicle dealerships across Australia and New Zealand.

A big driver of Eagers' success has been electric vehicles, particularly BYD. The ASX car stock has been one of the standout performers in the consumer discretionary sector and now operates roughly 80% of BYD dealerships in Australia. That gives it unmatched exposure to one of the fastest-growing EV brands in the country.

Petrol prices push Aussies into EVs

At first glance, the fuel crunch might not seem directly relevant to the rising price of the ASX car stock. After all, Eagers isn't an EV manufacturer. But dig a little deeper, and the link becomes clearer.

Rising petrol prices are pushing more Australians to consider electric vehicles. That shift is accelerating demand for brands like BYD, which has been rapidly gaining traction locally. Importantly, Eagers has exposure to EV sales through its broad dealership network, giving it a front-row seat to this transition.

More customers walking into dealerships to enquire about EVs can translate into higher sales activity. Even if buyers are simply switching from petrol cars to electric models, increased showroom traffic tends to support volumes and sometimes margins too.

And margins matter. When demand outstrips supply, as is currently the case for some EV models, dealers often have greater pricing power. That can reduce the need for discounting and support profitability across new vehicle sales.

Shift in buying behaviour

But before investors get too carried away, it's worth keeping a few caveats in mind.

First, this is largely a shift in buying behaviour rather than a guaranteed surge in total car sales. If consumers are simply swapping petrol vehicles for EVs, the overall volume uplift may be limited.

Second, supply constraints remain a real issue. Strong demand for EVs, including models from BYD, has led to longer wait times. That can delay deliveries and push revenue recognition further out, muting near-term earnings momentum.

Finally, the $7 billion ASX car stock is still a cyclical business. Interest rates, consumer confidence, and access to finance all play a major role in car-buying decisions. Those macro factors can easily outweigh any thematic boost from EV adoption.

Foolish Takeaway

The fuel crisis appears to be providing a helpful tailwind for the ASX car stock by accelerating interest in electric vehicles. But it's not a simple case of "EV demand up, share price up".

For investors, this remains a broad play on automotive demand — with EVs adding an extra layer of momentum rather than defining the entire story.

The post Why fuel prices could be quietly powering this ASX car stock higher appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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• Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today
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• Why this ASX giant's shares just hit the accelerator today
• Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today

Motley Fool contributor Marc Van Dinther has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has recommended BYD Company. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Eagers Automotive Ltd. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

ASX tech shares are roaring back to life.

After a brutal 6 months, the largest names on the ASX tech scene have staged a sharp rebound over the past five trading days. Investors are piling back into the sector, and the turnaround has been fast.

Let's take a closer look how each ASX tech share fared.

WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC)

Leading the charge is WiseTech, which has surged an eye-catching 26% in just a week. That's a major reversal for an ASX tech share still down 33% year to date.

The company's CargoWise platform remains deeply embedded in global logistics networks, giving it strong recurring revenue and pricing power. However, expectations are high, and any slowdown in global trade or earnings growth could quickly pressure the share price again.

Xero Ltd (ASX: XRO)

This ASX tech share has also bounced strongly, climbing 16% over the past five days, though it remains down 28% in 2025.

The cloud accounting leader continues to grow its global subscriber base, particularly in key offshore markets. Its long-term growth story is intact, but investors are still watching closely for improvements in profitability and margins.

Megaport Ltd (ASX: MP1)

One of the biggest movers has been Megaport, which has jumped 28% in a matter of days, despite being down 30% year to date.

The company is benefiting from structural demand as more businesses shift to cloud-based infrastructure. Still, this ASX tech share remains a volatile name, and sentiment can swing quickly if execution falls short.

NextDC Ltd (ASX: NXT)

Meanwhile, NextDC is in a different position altogether. Its shares have risen 11% over the past week and are now up 12% for the year.

The data centre operator sits at the heart of powerful trends including artificial intelligence and cloud computing. That demand is driving growth, though its capital-intensive expansion plans mean investors must keep an eye on costs and project execution.

TechnologyOne Ltd (ASX: TNE)

Rounding out the group is TechnologyOne, which has climbed 13% in five days and is now up 11% year to date.

The ASX tech share has been one of the steadiest performers in the sector, supported by its successful transition to a software-as-a-service model. Its consistency is a strength, although any slowdown in contract wins or enterprise spending could temper momentum.

Foolish Takeaway

The sharp rebound across these names highlights just how quickly sentiment can shift in the tech sector. While some of these ASX tech stocks are still well below their earlier highs, the recent surge suggests investors are once again willing to back growth.

Whether this rally has staying power will likely depend on earnings delivery and broader market conditions, but for now, ASX tech is firmly back in the spotlight.

The post The tech rally is back: here are 5 ASX shares leading the charge appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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• Why WiseTech shares could rise 70%
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• WiseTech shares are surging again, is it too late to buy now?
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Motley Fool contributor Marc Van Dinther has positions in WiseTech Global. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Megaport, Technology One, WiseTech Global, and Xero. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended WiseTech Global and Xero. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Technology One. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

Shares in James Hardie Industries PLC (ASX: JHX) looked unstoppable to start April.

The ASX heavyweight surged 11% in the first two weeks of the month, riding a wave of optimism. But that rally hit a wall on Thursday, when the stock dropped 4.2% to $28, making it one of the day's biggest laggards.

So, is this just a minor hiccup for James Hardie shares, or a sign that the momentum has already fizzled out?

Risks investors shouldn't ignore

The reality is that James Hardie is not without its challenges.

The biggest concern remains its heavy exposure to the US housing market. If housing starts slow — or simply stays weak — demand for building materials could soften. That's been a key factor weighing on the share price recently, and it's not going away anytime soon.

There are also execution risks tied to its acquisition of AZEK. Integrating a large business is never simple. Management needs to merge operations smoothly, extract promised synergies, and keep costs under control. Any stumble here could quickly show up in earnings.

And then there's the broader backdrop. Investor sentiment toward cyclical and industrial stocks has been shaky. Even strong companies can get dragged lower when the market mood turns cautious, adding another layer of volatility for shareholders.

Strong foundations still in place

Despite those risks, it would be a mistake to write off James Hardie shares too quickly.

The roughly $15 billion company remains the global leader in fibre cement siding and trim, with a dominant position in the US — its most important market. That scale delivers real advantages, including pricing power and a competitive moat that few rivals can match.

Operationally, the business is still performing well. In its latest quarterly update, net sales jumped 30% to $1.24 billion for the three months to 31 December 2025. Adjusted EBITDA rose 26% to $329.9 million. Those are not the numbers of a company in trouble.

There's also a compelling long-term growth story unfolding.

The AZEK acquisition has significantly expanded James Hardie's addressable market. It's no longer just a siding business. It's building a broader outdoor living platform across decking, railing, and exterior solutions. If management executes well, this could unlock a new phase of growth.

What do experts think?

Most brokers are upbeat on James Hardie shares and rate them a buy. They have set an average 12-month price target of $39.53, which points to a potential gain of 41% at current levels.

According to broker Morgans, the outlook remains attractive. The firm has a buy rating on James Hardie with a price target of $45.75. Based on the current share price of $28, that implies potential upside of roughly 63%. That's a sizeable vote of confidence.

Foolish Takeaway

Short-term momentum may have stalled, and risks are clearly in play. But the underlying business still looks robust, with strong market positioning and meaningful growth drivers.

For investors, the key question isn't whether the share price dipped this week, it's whether the long-term story remains intact. Right now, the answer appears to be yes.

The post Warning sign? James Hardie shares may be losing momentum appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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• Why are James Hardie shares storming higher today?

Motley Fool contributor Marc Van Dinther 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.

BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) shares have been on a wild ride.

The mining giant surged to a 52-week high of $59.39 in early March, only to tumble to roughly $47 soon after. But that wasn't the end of the story.

Over the past three weeks, BHP shares have clawed their way back to $55.66 at the time of writing, capping off a remarkable 54% gain over the past 12 months.

So, has the easy money already been made, or is there more upside ahead?

Let's start with the positives

BHP remains one of the lowest-cost producers globally. That's a huge advantage in a cyclical industry where margins can swing sharply. When commodity prices fall, higher-cost operators feel the pain first. BHP, thanks to its scale and efficiency, can keep generating profits through the cycle.

Then there's copper. This is where the long-term story gets compelling. As electrification accelerates and the global energy transition gathers pace, demand for copper is expected to surge. BHP has significant exposure to this theme, positioning it to benefit from a powerful structural tailwind.

Add in a strong balance sheet and consistent cash generation, and it's easy to see why BHP shares remain a core holding for many private and institutional investors. This is a business built to endure — and potentially thrive — through volatility.

Rising energy and labour cost

But there are risks. BHP is highly cyclical and closely tied to global growth. More specifically, it remains heavily reliant on demand from China. If Chinese economic activity slows or stimulus falls short, commodity prices could weaken. That would quickly flow through to earnings.

There are also external pressures to consider. Geopolitical tensions, rising energy costs, and labour inflation all have the potential to squeeze margins.

So what do the experts think?

According to TradingView data, sentiment is mixed but still leans cautiously positive. Twelve analysts rate BHP shares as a hold, while seven have buy or strong buy recommendations. Two sit on the bearish side with sell ratings.

The average 12-month price target is $52.68, below current levels, implying a 5.2% downside from here. That suggests the market sees limited short-term upside after the recent rebound.

But the bulls are still out there. The most optimistic forecasts see BHP climbing to $65.02 and comfortably clear that $60 barrier. This bullish outlook points to a potential gain of around 17% from current price levels.

Foolish Takeaway

BHP shares have already delivered strong gains, and the recent rebound has closed much of the gap to record highs.

Breaking through $60 isn't out of the question, but it will likely require supportive commodity prices, stable global growth, and continued demand from China.

The post Can BHP shares smash through the $60 record barrier in April? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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Motley Fool contributor Marc Van Dinther has positions in BHP Group. 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 recommended BHP Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

If you want to know where serious money is flowing in ASX ETFs, the leaderboard hasn't changed.

The same trio, that combined have over $50 billion in funds under management, continues to dominate: Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS), Vanguard MSCI International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS), and iShares S&P 500 ETF (ASX: IVV).

Together, they form the backbone of countless portfolios, and they all gained roughly 16% in value over 12 months.

But after strong market moves and shifting global conditions, do these 3 ASX ETFs still deserve a place in your portfolio?

Let's take a closer look.

Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF

This Vanguard fund remains the king of the ASX ETF market, with around $24.2 billion in funds under management. It gives investors exposure to roughly 300 of Australia's largest companies, offering low fees, high liquidity, and a steady stream of franked dividends.

Its biggest holdings tell the story. Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) and BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) sit at the top, reflecting the heavy influence of banks and miners on the local market.

That's both a strength and a weakness. You get reliable income and exposure to Australia's economic engine, but also concentration risk. When banks or commodities wobble, this Vanguard ASX ETF feels it.

Vanguard MSCI International Shares ETF

Then there's Vanguard MSCI International Shares ETF, with around $14.4 billion under management.

This is the classic "set-and-forget" global ASX ETF. It spreads your investment across developed markets like the US, Europe, and Japan, helping reduce the home bias that many Australian investors naturally have.

At its core are global giants like Microsoft Corp (NASDAQ: MSFT) and Alphabet Inc.(NASDAQ: GOOG). These companies sit at the centre of innovation in cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and digital infrastructure.

That's the appeal. Instead of relying on local banks or commodity cycles, you tap into global growth across multiple sectors.

iShares S&P 500 ETF

Rounding out the trio is the iShares fund, with just over $12.3 billion in funds under management.

This ETF is the purest way to own the US market through the ASX. It tracks the S&P 500 Index, giving exposure to America's blue chips.

And once again, the top holdings dominate. Apple Inc. (NASDAQ: AAPL) and Microsoft lead the charge, highlighting the heavy tilt towards mega-cap tech.

That concentration has been a tailwind in recent years, but it also means performance is closely tied to a handful of giants.

Foolish Takeaway

So, do these 3 ASX ETFs still deserve a place? For most long-term investors, the answer is yes.

Each ETF plays a distinct role. VAS delivers income and franking benefits. VGS provides broad global diversification. IVV adds concentrated exposure to the world's most powerful market.

The real question isn't whether to own them. It's how to balance them.

Because when combined thoughtfully, this trio still forms one of the strongest core portfolio foundations on the ASX. It's built for income, growth, and long-term resilience.

The post The biggest ASX ETFs revealed – are they still buys? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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Motley Fool contributor Marc Van Dinther has positions in BHP Group. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Alphabet, Apple, Microsoft, and iShares S&P 500 ETF and is short shares of Apple. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Alphabet, Apple, BHP Group, Microsoft, Vanguard Msci Index International Shares ETF, and iShares S&P 500 ETF. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

It's been a volatile stretch for two of the most closely watched ASX stocks.

Pro Medicus Ltd (ASX: PME) surged 8% on Thursday, extending its five-day gain to 22%, while Aristocrat Leisure Ltd (ASX: ALL) added another 3%.

Yet despite the recent bounce, both remain firmly in the red for the year. Pro Medicus is still down around 33%, while Aristocrat has slipped 15%.

Hectic? Absolutely. But for long-term investors, the bigger question is simple: has the market created opportunity in two high-quality operators?

Let's break it down.

Pro Medicus: high-margin healthcare tech with global reach

This ASX healthcare stock sits in a rare category on the ASX — a pure-play, high-margin healthcare technology company with global scale.

Its flagship Visage platform is used by major hospitals and medical institutions to rapidly process and interpret medical imaging. That might sound niche, but it's exactly this focus that has created its competitive advantage.

High switching costs, long contracts, and deep integration into hospital systems make its revenue base sticky and highly scalable. Once embedded, customers rarely leave.

Despite recent volatility, analysts remain constructive. Bell Potter just retained its buy rating on Pro Medicus, albeit with a slightly reduced price target of $226 (from $240). At current levels around $148.88, that implies potential upside of roughly 52% over the next 12 months.

Of course, risks remain. Valuation sensitivity is high, and any slowdown in contract wins or hospital spending could quickly weigh on sentiment. But the long-term growth story — driven by digitisation of healthcare — remains firmly intact.

Aristocrat: gaming dominance with global scale

Aristocrat Leisure Ltd is another ASX heavyweight that has found itself under pressure this year.

But beneath the share price volatility, the core business continues to deliver.

Aristocrat generates strong earnings from gaming machines, digital gaming content, and its fast-growing online segment, particularly in the US. That mix gives it exposure to both traditional casino demand and the structural growth of digital entertainment.

Importantly, underlying demand trends in US gaming remain resilient, even as sentiment has cooled.

Macquarie remains bullish on the ASX stock. The broker has maintained its outperform rating and set a $63.00 price target, implying potential upside of around 28% from current levels.

In other words, the market may be underestimating the strength and consistency of Aristocrat's earnings engine.

There are risks, of course. Gaming is cyclical, regulation can shift, and consumer spending can fluctuate. But Aristocrat's scale, content pipeline, and global footprint help cushion those swings.

Foolish Takeaway

Both Pro Medicus and Aristocrat have been hit by volatility this year. But neither ASX stock has lost its competitive edge.

For investors willing to look beyond short-term noise, these two ASX leaders still offer something rare: high-quality businesses trading in less-than-perfect sentiment. And that's often where long-term opportunities begin.

The post 2 high-quality ASX stocks to buy and hold long term appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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• Why did Morgans just lower its outlook on Collins Food and Pro Medicus shares?

Motley Fool contributor Marc Van Dinther has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has recommended Pro Medicus. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Pro Medicus. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

This ASX coal stock is pushing higher today. Shares in New Hope Corporation Ltd (ASX: NHC) charged 2.2% to $5.51 in early afternoon trade.

It's another solid move for a share that's already been on a tear. Over the past 12 months, the ASX coal stock is up 54%, comfortably beating the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO), which has gained around 16%.

So what's driving today's bump?

Replacing old debt with new funding

It all comes down to smart balance sheet management.

On Thursday morning, the ASX coal stock announced it is refinancing $300 million of convertible notes, launching a new senior unsecured convertible note offering due 2032. At the same time, it plans to repurchase up to 100% of its existing 2029 notes.

In simple terms, New Hope is replacing older debt with newer, more attractive funding. The new notes come with a lower coupon of 2.375% to 2.875% and include a 2030 put option for investors. That gives the ASX coal stock more flexibility while reducing financing costs and pushing out its debt maturity profile.

Investors like that. If more than 85% of the 2029 notes are repurchased, New Hope may even redeem the remaining balance at face value, effectively cleaning up its debt structure in one move.

Management's message

The implication is clear: management of the ASX coal stock is getting ahead of the curve.

Chief Financial Officer Rebecca Rinaldi said:

We are pleased to return to the convertible bond market for the third time. The convertible bond market continues to be an important and cost-effective component of our capital structure. Through this transaction, we are proactively refinancing our 2029 notes at improved terms, extending our debt maturity profile and reducing our financing costs. Consistent with our prior issuance, New Hope may cash settle any conversions, providing us with flexibility to manage any future dilution that may arise.

And timing matters. This refinancing comes as global energy markets remain volatile, with tensions in the Middle East keeping thermal coal prices elevated. That backdrop continues to support strong cash generation across the sector.

Operational stability

Importantly, New Hope also confirmed that production and costs are tracking within FY26 guidance. That's another tick for operational stability.

Put it all together, and you get a company that's not just benefiting from favourable commodity prices, but also actively improving its financial position.

Looking ahead, the strategy is straightforward. By extending debt maturities and lowering financing costs, New Hope is building flexibility. That gives it more room to invest in growth, manage market swings, and continue delivering returns to shareholders.

Foolish bottom line

Today's price jump of the ASX coal stock isn't about hype. It's about discipline.

New Hope is strengthening its balance sheet at a time when conditions are favourable. And in a cyclical industry like mining, that kind of forward planning can make all the difference.

It's a reminder that sometimes, the smartest moves happen behind the scenes, and the market is starting to take notice.

The post Why this ASX coal stock just jumped and keeps on surging appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

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• 3 reasons to buy New Hope shares today

Motley Fool contributor Marc Van Dinther 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.

It hasn't been an easy year for some of the highest-quality ASX shares.

REA Group Ltd (ASX: REA) shares are down around 13% year to date, while Light & Wonder Inc (ASX: LNW) has fallen roughly 21%.

Both are leaders in their fields. Both ASX shares have strong long-term growth stories.

So, is this weakness an opportunity?

REA Group: a digital powerhouse

When it comes to dominant platforms, this ASX share is hard to beat.

The company sits at the centre of Australia's property market through realestate.com.au. That position gives it significant pricing power and a highly scalable business model.

Agents need eyeballs and REA controls them. That dynamic has allowed the company to consistently lift prices through premium listings and depth products, even when property volumes fluctuate.

While the housing cycle can create short-term volatility, the long-term trajectory remains intact. Growth is also supported by international expansion, adding another lever beyond the domestic market.

And the recent pullback hasn't gone unnoticed. Trading View data show that 12 out of 16 brokers rate REA Group as a buy or strong buy. They have set a 12-month average price target of $213.62, which points to a 32% potential gain.

Analysts at Morgan Stanley currently have an overweight rating on the ASX share, with a $230.00 price target. That suggests potential upside of roughly 44% from current levels.

For long-term investors, that's a strong signal that the market may be underestimating REA's staying power.

Light & Wonder: growth across multiple fronts

Light & Wonder offers a different kind of growth story, but one that's just as compelling.

The company operates across land-based gaming, iGaming, and social gaming through its SciPlay division. That diversified model allows it to tap into both traditional casino revenue and the fast-growing digital gaming market.

It's a powerful combination. By straddling physical and digital channels, the ASX share is positioned to capture multiple industry tailwinds at once. And that's exactly why analysts are paying attention.

Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG) has named the ASX share its top pick in the Australian gaming sector, pointing to its ability to win market share and its "wide moat from disruption." That's a big call in a competitive space.

The upside case is hard to ignore. Macquarie has set a $205 price target on the stock, compared to its current price of $122.77. That implies potential upside of more than 65%.

Of course, risks remain. Consumer spending cycles, regulatory changes, and execution all matter. But the long-term positioning is clear.

Foolish Takeaway

REA Group and Light & Wonder have both taken a hit in 2026. But their core strengths haven't disappeared. These are dominant businesses with scalable models, strong competitive advantages, and clear growth pathways.

For investors willing to look beyond short-term volatility, they could be the kind of shares you buy — and forget about for years.

The post Buy and forget? 2 top ASX shares built for the long term appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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Motley Fool contributor Marc Van Dinther 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 Light & Wonder Inc. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Light & Wonder Inc. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

If you had invested $5,000 in Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) shares two years ago, you'd be sitting on a seriously impressive gain today.

Among today's S&P/ASX 20 Index (ASX: XTL) heavyweights, CBA shares are one of the standout performers over the past 24 months. And no, this isn't a speculative tech rocket or a turnaround story. This is a bank.

Let's dive in.

Stellar growth, generous payouts

Back in April 2024, CBA shares were trading around $114.54. Fast forward to today, and they're changing hands near $183.38 at the time of writing. That's a gain of almost 60% in share price alone. By comparison the ASX 20 has risen roughly 23% over the same period.

Do the maths, and it gets even more interesting. A $5,000 investment at $114.54 would have bought you roughly 43.7 shares. At today's price, those shares would now be worth about $8,010. That's more than $3,000 in capital gains.

But that's only half the story. CBA shares have continued to deliver generous, fully-franked dividends over that period. CBA's yield has generally been between 3% and 4%.

If you'd reinvested those payouts along the way, your total investment would likely be worth north of $8,600 today. That brings the total earnings gain over 2 years to 72%. Not bad for a "boring" blue chip.

Strong, consistent profits

So what's been driving this performance? Plenty.

First, earnings resilience. Despite a challenging economic backdrop, CBA has continued to deliver strong and consistent profits. Its dominant position in the Australian banking sector — particularly in home lending — has helped it maintain steady revenue streams.

Then there's pricing power. Higher interest rates have boosted net interest margins, allowing the bank to earn more on its lending book. At the same time, its massive customer base and sticky relationships have helped protect those margins from competition.

And don't underestimate demand. CBA shares have become a cornerstone holding for ETFs, super funds, and income-focused investors. In uncertain markets, money tends to flow into large, reliable companies and CBA has been one of the biggest beneficiaries of that trend.

Consistent investor demand

There's also the dividend appeal. With consistent, fully-franked payouts, CBA remains a favourite among income investors. That demand helps support the share price, even when broader market conditions are volatile.

Put it all together, and you get a powerful combination: steady earnings, strong margins, reliable dividends, and constant investor demand. The result? A blue-chip stock that has quietly delivered market-beating returns.

Foolish Takeaway

The performance of CBA shares over the past two years is a reminder that you don't always need to chase high-risk growth stocks to build wealth.

Sometimes, the biggest winners are the ones hiding in plain sight. And for long-term investors, that's the real takeaway.

Quality businesses don't just protect capital, they can grow it faster than you think.

The post $5,000 invested in CBA shares two years ago is now worth… appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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Motley Fool contributor Marc Van Dinther 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.