Aristocrat Leisure Ltd (ASX: ALL) is down around 19% year to date, while Light & Wonder Inc (ASX: LNW) has dropped roughly 20% over the same period.

So, is this just a cooling-off phase or a setup for the next leg higher?

Let's take a closer look.

Aristocrat: a quality name under pressure

The $28 billion ASX gaming stock has long been one of the highest-quality names in the gaming sector. It generates the bulk of its earnings from gaming machines and digital content, particularly in the lucrative US market.

And while sentiment has softened, the underlying business hasn't shown the same weakness. Demand for gaming machines and casino content remains resilient, especially in North America. That's important, because it's the engine room of Aristocrat's earnings.

Recent data backs that up. Analysts at Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG) have pointed to year-on-year growth in US casino gaming activity. That's a positive signal for Aristocrat's core land-based segment.

At the same time, its digital division continues to expand, giving the company exposure to the fast-growing online gaming market. There are also positives on the capital management front. Management has been disciplined, supporting share buybacks and working to reduce debt. That focus can improve earnings quality over time.

Macquarie remains bullish on the ASX gaming stock. The broker has retained its outperform rating and set a $63.00 price target on the stock, implying potential upside of around 35% from current levels.

In other words, the market may be underestimating the strength of Aristocrat's underlying business.

Light & Wonder: diversified and gaining ground

Light & Wonder tells a similar story, but with a slightly different angle.

The company operates across three key segments: land-based gaming, iGaming, and social gaming through its SciPlay division. That diversified model allows it to generate revenue from both traditional casino floors and the rapidly growing digital gaming space.

It's a powerful combination. By straddling physical and digital gaming, the ASX gaming stock is positioned to capture multiple growth trends at once.

And that's a big reason why analysts are paying attention. Macquarie has named it its top pick in the Australian gaming sector, citing its ability to win market share and its "wide moat from disruption." That's a strong endorsement in a competitive industry.

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

Foolish Takeaway

Of course, risks remain. Both ASX gaming stocks are still exposed to consumer spending trends. If economic conditions weaken, discretionary spending – including gaming – could come under pressure.

There's also ongoing competition and the ever-present risk of regulatory changes in key markets.

But for now, the key takeaway is this. The pullback in these stocks appears to be driven more by sentiment and valuation resets than by a breakdown in fundamentals.

Aristocrat and Light & Wonder have both taken a hit. But their core businesses remain strong, and analysts are still firmly in their corner. If sentiment stabilises, these beaten-down ASX gaming stocks could be well placed to bounce back.

The post Down 20%, are these ASX gaming stocks ready to surge? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Despite this recovery, the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) has remained flat. 

The consumer discretionary index remains down more than 12% year to date. 

There are several factors that could be keeping investors away from the sector: 

• Interest rates – higher rates reduce spending
• Inflation – high inflation reduces discretionary income
• Consumer confidence – low confidence leads to cutbacks

Despite these headwinds, there remains long-term value in the sector, as these economic conditions ebb and flow over the long term. 

For investors willing to deal with short-term volatility but looking for long-term opportunities, here are three consumer discretionary shares to consider. 

Aristocrat Leisure Ltd (ASX: ALL)

Aristocrat is an Australian gaming technology company licensed in around 340 gaming jurisdictions in more than 100 countries. Aristocrat offers a range of products and solutions in the gaming space, including poker machines and casino management systems.

Its share price has fallen 18% year to date and 25% over the last year. 

It currently sits close to 52-week lows. 

However, it could be a buy-low opportunity for the long term. 

Recently, Macquarie retained its outperform rating and $63 price target on this consumer discretionary stock. 

From today's price of close to $46.92, that indicates an upside of 34%. 

The team at Morgans are also optimistic that the share price will recover. 

The broker believes its shares are attractively priced right now, given its strong growth track record.

Harvey Norman Holdings Ltd (ASX: HVN)

Harvey Norman is a leading Australian-based retailer selling electrical, computer, furniture, and entertainment goods.

Its share price is down almost 34% year to date after a tough February and March. 

Negative sentiment appears to be continuing this month, although it now appears to have been oversold. 

It simply might now be too cheap to ignore.

Bell Potter seems to agree. The broker currently has a buy rating with a price target of $6.70. 

From today's share price of $4.64, that indicates an upside potential of 44%. 

JB Hi-Fi Ltd (ASX: JBH)

Finally, JB Hi-Fi is also sitting well below yearly highs. 

The retailer of home entertainment and home appliance products has seen its share price fall more than 23% year to date. 

Analysts at Bell Potter recently retained their buy rating on this retail giant's shares with a reduced price target of $90.

That target sits right around the average of 15 analyst forecasts via TradingView. 

If this consumer discretionary stock reaches this target in the next 12 months, it would represent a 23% rise. 

The post Consumer discretionary shares to target for a long-term rebound appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

For me, the focus would be on balance. I would want a mix of quality, growth, and resilience rather than relying on a single idea.

That way, my portfolio has the potential to perform across different market conditions while still benefiting from long-term compounding.

Here is how I would think about allocating it today.

Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES)

Wesfarmers would be my starting point. It is one of those businesses that I think can quietly deliver over long periods of time. Its core divisions, particularly Bunnings and Kmart, continue to generate strong earnings supported by well-established market positions.

What I like is the consistency. Even in a mixed economic environment, Wesfarmers has shown it can grow profits and manage costs effectively. That kind of reliability is valuable when building a portfolio.

For me, this would form the defensive core of the investment.

Pro Medicus Ltd (ASX: PME)

Pro Medicus adds a different dimension. This is a high-quality growth company operating in medical imaging software, with a strong global footprint and a history of winning large contracts.

What stands out is the scalability of the business. It generates high margins and strong cash flow, which allows it to grow without the same level of capital intensity as many other healthcare companies.

Its valuation can look elevated at times, but I think that reflects the business' quality and growth potential. And with its shares down heavily over the past 12 months, I believe its valuation is the most attractive it has been in years.

For me, this is the type of ASX share that can drive long-term capital growth.

Aristocrat Leisure Ltd (ASX: ALL)

Aristocrat brings a combination of cash flow and growth. Its gaming business remains highly profitable, while its digital division continues to expand, providing exposure to a growing segment of the market.

What I find appealing is how the company has evolved. It is no longer just a traditional gaming manufacturer. It has built a broader platform that includes digital content and recurring revenue streams.

That diversification can support earnings growth over time.

Foolish Takeaway

If I were investing $15,000 in ASX shares today, I would be aiming for a mix of stability and growth.

I think Wesfarmers provides a reliable, high-quality foundation, Pro Medicus offers exposure to a scalable global healthcare business, and Aristocrat adds strong cash flow with an expanding digital growth engine.

Together, I think they could support a balanced portfolio that can perform over the long term.

The post How I'd invest $15,000 in ASX shares right now appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Two standout ASX stocks — REA Group Ltd (ASX: REA) and Aristocrat Leisure Ltd (ASX: ALL) — were among the losers again on Thursday. In fact, both have shed roughly 30% of their value over the past six months.

While that might rattle short-term traders, brokers are increasingly viewing this weakness as a compelling long-term entry point.

REA Group

When it comes to dominant digital platforms, REA Group remains one of the ASX's crown jewels.

The ASX stock sits at the heart of Australia's online property advertising market through its flagship realestate.com.au platform, giving it powerful pricing power and a highly scalable business model.

While the housing cycle can create short-term volatility, REA's long-term growth story remains intact. It's supported by premium listings, depth products, and international expansion.

The recent price weakness on the ASX stock appears to have caught the attention of analysts. Broker Morgan Stanley currently has an overweight rating on REA's shares, alongside a $230.00 price target. That implies a potential upside of roughly 44% over the next 12 months.

For long-term investors, that's a strong vote of confidence in both the company's fundamentals and its ability to rebound as market conditions stabilise.

Aristocrat Leisure

Gaming technology leader Aristocrat Leisure is another high-quality name that has fallen out of favour recently. And the ASX stock could be primed for a comeback.

Aristocrat generates the bulk of its earnings from gaming machines and digital content, particularly in the lucrative US market. While sentiment has softened in recent months, underlying demand trends appear far more resilient than the share price suggests.

In fact, analysts are seeing encouraging signs. The team at Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG) has retained its outperform rating on the ASX stock, and set a $63.00 price target. That represents potential upside of approximately 33% from current levels.

Macquarie has been reviewing recent US casino gaming data and noted year-on-year growth, a positive signal for Aristocrat's core land-based gaming business. Combined with its expanding digital segment, the company appears well placed to deliver long-term earnings growth.

Foolish Takeaway

Market pullbacks can be uncomfortable, but they often create rare opportunities to buy high-quality ASX stocks at discounted prices.

With both REA Group and Aristocrat Leisure down significantly and backed by bullish broker forecasts, long-term investors may want to take a closer look before the market sentiment turns.

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

Here are three ASX shares that may not always grab headlines but could quietly build serious wealth over time.

Aristocrat Leisure Ltd (ASX: ALL)

The first ASX share that could quietly deliver strong returns is Aristocrat Leisure.

The company has built a powerful dual-engine business. Its traditional land-based gaming division generates reliable cash flow, while its digital segment provides exposure to higher-growth opportunities.

What makes Aristocrat particularly interesting is its ability to consistently produce successful game content. In both physical machines and mobile platforms, strong titles can generate recurring revenue long after their initial release.

This blend of stability and growth gives Aristocrat flexibility. It can reinvest in new opportunities while still returning capital to shareholders.

Over time, that balance between dependable earnings and expanding digital exposure could make it a compelling long-term compounder.

UBS recently put a buy rating and $69.00 price target on its shares.

NextDC Ltd (ASX: NXT)

Another ASX share that could be worth considering is data centre operator NextDC.

In many ways, it is helpful to think of NextDC as a backbone provider for the digital economy. As businesses move more workloads to the cloud and demand for data processing and AI grows, the need for secure, high-performance infrastructure continues to rise.

What sets NextDC apart is its focus on premium, interconnected facilities. These sites allow customers to link directly with cloud providers, networks, and partners, creating an ecosystem effect that is difficult to replicate.

While the company is still in a heavy investment phase, this infrastructure build-out could underpin earnings growth for many years.

This week, the team at UBS put a buy rating and $22.55 price target on NextDC's shares.

REA Group Ltd (ASX: REA)

A third and final ASX share that could be a long-term winner is REA Group.

REA Group operates a digital marketplace that has become deeply embedded in Australia's property ecosystem. Real estate agents rely on its platforms to reach buyers, giving the company significant pricing power and a dominant competitive position.

But the interesting part of the story is how REA Group continues to monetise that position. Premium listings, data-driven insights, and value-added services are all helping drive revenue per customer higher over time.

Even when property volumes fluctuate, REA Group has shown an ability to grow earnings through yield expansion and product innovation. Over the long run, this makes it less of a cyclical business than it might first appear.

Morgan Stanley currently has an overweight rating and $230.00 price target on its shares.

The post 3 fantastic ASX shares that could help build long-term wealth appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Well, the team at Morgans has narrowed things down by naming two shares to buy and one to sell, courtesy of The Bull.

Here's what it is recommending:

Aristocrat Leisure Ltd (ASX: ALL)

Morgans thinks that this gaming technology company could be an ASX 200 share to buy now.

With Aristocrat's shares trading on lower than normal multiples, the broker believes an attractive buying opportunity has opened up. It said:

Aristocrat Leisure designs, develops and distributes gaming content, platforms and systems. It offers high quality recurring earnings from generating real money online gaming opportunities. An under geared balance sheet provides options for acquisitions, and ALL is a capital light business with strong cash conversion. The company is trading well below historical levels. The stock is attractively valued given its track record of proven earnings growth.

Capstone Copper Corp (ASX: CSC)

Another ASX share that Morgans has named as a buy this week is copper miner Capstone Copper.

Once again, it believes the company's shares are trading at an attractive level for investors. It explains:

This copper miner and developer has five long-life assets strategically located in the Americas. CSC is one of a limited number of pure play copper names listed on the ASX. Copper production growth differentiates CSC from its peers. Growth is driven by a combination of near term and longer dated brownfield and greenfield projects, alongside a declining cost profile. CSC was recently trading on a modest price-earnings ratio in 2026 and offers good value at these price levels.

Guzman Y Gomez Ltd (ASX: GYG)

Morgans has named this ASX 200 share as a sell this week according to The Bull. It highlights that the Mexican fast food company's US business is underperforming and will need to improve to deliver value for shareholders. It said:

Guzman Y Gomez owns, operates and franchises Mexican inspired quick service restaurants in Australia, Singapore, Japan and the United States. The company's premium valuation is predicated on expectations it will deliver material earnings per share growth over many years. In our view, the company is exposed to execution risk as it aggressively continues to open new restaurants in Australia. Australian earnings were up strongly in the first half of 2026.

However, segment underlying EBITDA in the United States posted a loss of $8.3 million. Management will need to narrow its losses in the US and increase the pace of US expansion to ultimately deliver value for shareholders. GYG shares have fallen from $31 on March 31, 2025 to trade at $15.735 on April 2, 2026.

The post Morgans names two ASX 200 shares to buy and one to sell this week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

To narrow things down, let's see what analysts are saying about three popular shares, courtesy of The Bull. Here's what they are recommending:

Aristocrat Leisure Ltd (ASX: ALL)

The team at Morgans is positive on this gaming technology company and has named its shares as a buy.

The broker believes that its shares are attractively priced at current levels given its strong track record of growth. It said:

Aristocrat Leisure designs, develops and distributes gaming content, platforms and systems. It offers high quality recurring earnings from generating real money online gaming opportunities. An under geared balance sheet provides options for acquisitions, and ALL is a capital light business with strong cash conversion. The company is trading well below historical levels. The stock is attractively valued given its track record of proven earnings growth.

BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP)

Over at Fairmont Equities, it has named BHP shares as a hold this week.

While it believes a commodities bull market is only just beginning and BHP is a safe bet, it isn't quite recommending the Big Australian as a buy just yet. It commented:

The commodities bull market has only just started, in my view. As a global mining giant, BHP generally appeals to investors looking to increase exposure in the resources sector. BHP's share price has retreated to a major support level since the start of the war in Iran. I'm confident the stock should bounce from these levels. BHP's diversification makes it a safer bet for investors to ride the commodities bull market.

Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS)

Fairmont Equities has also named Woodside shares as a hold this week.

While it was a buyer of Woodside shares before the US-Iran conflict, it isn't adding to its holding at current levels following a strong share price rise. It said:

We were buying this major oil and gas producer prior to the conflict in Iran in response to looming supply issues. Investors have been underweight in the energy sector. As the world increasingly focuses on tightening energy supplies, we expect investors will start adding the most liquid and blue chip energy stocks to their portfolios. The largest on the ASX is Woodside Energy. The share price recently pushed beyond several major technical levels, which is a positive sign from a charting point of view.

The post Buy, hold, sell: Aristocrat, BHP, and Woodside shares  appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The three S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) shares I'm about to note are among the leaders in the world at what they do, and analysts think they have the potential to deliver large capital gains in the long term.

Let's have a look at what they do and how excited analysts are.

Aristocrat Leisure Ltd (ASX: ALL)

Aristocrat is a major player in the global poker machine and casino management system space. It also has a sizeable mobile game segment.

According to CMC Invest, there have been 9 analyst ratings on the business over the last 3 months, all of which were buy ratings.

The average price target – where analysts think the business will be trading in a year from now – is $67.06. At the time of writing, that suggests a rise of more than 40%.

The most optimistic price target is $73.71, suggesting a possible rise of more than 50%, while the lowest price target is $62.75, implying a suggested rise of more than 30%.

According to the projection on CMC Invest, the ASX share is valued at around 18x FY26's estimated earnings.

Orica Ltd (ASX: ORI)

The next ASX share I'll highlight is Orica, which describes itself as a global leader in mining and infrastructure services, explosives manufacturing, digital solutions, and specialty mining chemicals.

According to CMC Invest, there have been 11 recent ratings on the business – all of them were a buy.

The average price target on CMC Invest of $26.08 suggests a possible rise of around 25% at the time of writing, while the highest estimate of $29.88 implies a rise of well over 40%. However, the lowest price target of $23.95 suggests only a 15% potential rise.

Using the earnings forecast on CMC Invest, the business is valued at 17x FY26's estimated earnings.

Xero Ltd (ASX: XRO)

Xero is one of the world's leading cloud accounting and payments businesses.

According to CMC Invest, of the seven recent ratings on the ASX tech share, six were buy.

Impressively, the average price target of those ratings is $157.28, suggesting a possible increase of around 100%. The highest price target is $232.88, suggesting it could rise around 200%. That may be a bit ambitious for 2026.

But, not everyone is so confident – the lowest price target is $82.37. That suggests a rise of less than 10% from where it is today.

Based on broker UBS' projections, the business is valued at 67x FY26's estimated earnings.

The post Brokers rate these 3 top ASX shares as buys in April appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Three ASX shares that brokers have named as buys this week are listed below. Here's why their analysts are feeling bullish on them right now:

Aristocrat Leisure Ltd (ASX: ALL)

According to a note out of Macquarie, its analysts have retained their outperform rating and $63.00 price target on this gaming technology company's shares. The broker has been looking at recent US casino gaming data and was pleased to see year on year growth. This is despite operating in a potentially softer consumer backdrop. In light of this, the broker continues to forecast solid growth from Aristocrat over the medium term. So, with its shares de-rating significantly this year and its valuation at a multi-year low, the broker thinks investors should be snapping them up while they are down. The Aristocrat Leisure share price is trading at $46.55 this afternoon.

Catapult Sports Ltd (ASX: CAT)

A note out of Bell Potter reveals that its analysts have retained their buy rating and $4.75 price target on this sports technology company's shares. This follows the release of its investor day event presentation which outlined its medium-term growth targets. Bell Potter highlights that the key target is annual contract value (ACV) of US$200 million+ in two to three years. This in theory will be achieved by reaching 5,000 pro teams (vs ~4,000 now) and ACV per pro team of ~US$40,000 (vs ~US$30,000 now). The broker believes that this is achievable given the increase in solutions it offers due to acquisitions and new product development. Bell Potter is forecasting ACV of US$207 million in FY 2029, which is consistent with Catapult's target. The Catapult share price is fetching $3.50 at the time of writing.

Navigator Global Investments Ltd (ASX: NGI)

Analysts at Morgans have retained their buy rating on this investment company's shares with a trimmed price target of $2.98. According to the note, the broker was pleased with the company's acquisition of Georgian, which is a Toronto-based AI-focused growth equity firm. It thinks the acquisition is a strategic fit and will be earnings accretive. Outside this, it highlights that a recent selloff of Navigator Global shares appears to have been tied to private credit concerns around its key strategic partner Blue Owl. However, Morgans thinks that the company's fundamentals are largely unchanged. The Navigator share price is trading at $2.17 on Wednesday.

The post Top brokers name 3 ASX shares to buy today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The Australian share market is home to a number of businesses with strong long-term potential, operating across industries benefiting from structural growth trends. Identifying companies with scalable models and expanding market opportunities can be a good starting point.

Here are three ASX growth shares that analysts think could be worth considering.

Aristocrat Leisure Ltd (ASX: ALL)

The first ASX growth share to consider is Aristocrat Leisure.

is a global entertainment and gaming content creation company with segments spanning land-based gaming (Aristocrat Gaming), online real money gaming (Aristocrat Interactive), and social casino (Product Madness).

Its offering includes electronic gaming machines, casino management systems, free-to-play mobile games, and online real money games, that serve customers and millions of players worldwide every day.

Given its leadership position in the industry, its strong intellectual property, and its investment in research and development, the company appears well-placed to continue its solid growth over the next decade.

UBS believes this is the case. Last week, it put a buy rating and $69.00 price target on its shares.

Life360 Inc. (ASX: 360)

Another ASX growth share that could be a compelling option is Life360.

The technology company has built a global platform centred around family safety, with almost 100 million active users across its ecosystem.

What makes Life360 particularly interesting is how it is evolving beyond its core subscription offering. The company is layering in additional revenue streams such as advertising and hardware, which could significantly increase monetisation over time.

At the same time, it still has a large opportunity to convert free users into paying subscribers, providing a clear pathway for growth.

With strong user engagement and multiple levers to drive revenue, Life360 appears well placed to scale over the coming years.

The team at Bell Potter is bullish and put a buy rating and $37.75 price target on its shares last week.

NextDC Ltd (ASX: NXT)

A final ASX growth share that could be worth a look is NextDC.

The data centre operator sits at the intersection of several powerful trends, including cloud computing, artificial intelligence (AI), and the increasing need for data storage. Its facilities are becoming critical infrastructure for businesses that require secure and reliable access to data and computing power.

Importantly, NextDC has been building a strong pipeline of contracted capacity, which provides visibility over future revenue growth.

This could make it an interesting option for investors looking to invest $3,000 in ASX growth shares this month.

Morgans is a big fan. It recently put a buy rating and $20.50 price target on its shares.

The post Where to invest $3,000 in ASX growth shares in April appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Both NextDC Ltd (ASX: NXT) and Aristocrat Leisure Ltd (ASX: ALL) have shed close to 30% of their value.

That's a sharp pullback. But it could also be an opportunity.

Both ASX 200 shares are backed by strong long-term growth trends. And brokers are tipping meaningful upside from here.

So, are these buy-and-hold-for-a-decade stocks?

Let's take a closer look.

NextDC

NextDC sits right at the centre of the digital economy.

The company develops and operates data centres across Australia. These facilities power cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and enterprise IT systems.

As businesses shift online and AI adoption accelerates, the need for secure, high-performance data infrastructure is exploding. That puts this ASX 200 share in a prime position.

Key strengths are strong long-term demand tailwinds, a growing pipeline of projects and strategic locations in key metro markets.

The company also benefits from long-term contracts with major customers. That provides visibility on future revenue.

But there are risks.

NextDC is capital intensive. Building data centres isn't cheap. That means ongoing investment and pressure on short-term earnings.

Valuation has also been a sticking point in the past. Even after the recent drop, some investors remain cautious.

What do analysts think?

Morgans is firmly in the bullish camp. It has a buy rating and a $20.50 price target on the ASX 200 share. That implies around 66% upside over the next 12 months.

The broader consensus is similar, with an average target of $20.84. Even more striking, the most bullish analyst sees upside of up to 150%.

That's a big call — and it shows the level of conviction in the long-term story.

Aristocrat Leisure

Aristocrat is a global gaming powerhouse.

The company develops gaming machines and digital games, with a strong presence in both land-based casinos and online platforms.

Its secret weapon? Content.

Aristocrat consistently delivers high-performing games that keep players engaged. That drives recurring revenue and strong margins.

Strengths of the ASX 200 gaming stock include its global footprint, market leadership in slot machines, and fast-growing digital segment. The shift toward online gaming is a major tailwind.

The company also generates strong cash flow, giving it flexibility to invest and return capital to shareholders.

But again, there are risks.

Gaming is a competitive industry. Trends can shift quickly, and success depends on continually producing hit content.

Regulation is another factor. Changes in gambling laws can impact growth in key markets.

Still, analysts remain upbeat on the ASX 200 share.

UBS currently has a buy rating on Aristocrat shares, with a $69.00 price target. That suggests around 50% upside from current levels.

The bottom line

NextDC and Aristocrat have both been knocked down in recent months.

But the long-term growth stories of the two ASX 200 shares remain intact.

One is riding the data and AI boom. The other is capitalising on global gaming demand.

Neither is risk-free. Both require patience.

But for investors thinking long term — and willing to hold through volatility — these two ASX 200 shares could be worth buying and holding all the way to 2036.

The post Buy these 2 top ASX 200 shares and hold until 2036 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The key is to back companies with strong business models, robust competitive positions, and positive growth outlooks.

With that in mind, here are two ASX 200 growth shares that brokers think could be worth considering:

Aristocrat Leisure Ltd (ASX: ALL)

The first ASX 200 share that could be worth considering is Aristocrat Leisure.

It is a global gaming content and technology provider, with operations spanning land-based gaming (pokie) machines and a fast-growing digital gaming division. Its portfolio includes a range of popular titles and platforms that generate recurring revenue across multiple markets.

A key strength of Aristocrat is its ability to consistently develop and monetise high-performing game content. In land-based gaming, it has a strong position with casino operators, supported by long-standing relationships and a reputation for quality products.

At the same time, its digital division has become an increasingly important growth driver. Mobile games and online platforms provide access to a much larger global audience, with revenue generated through in-app purchases and ongoing engagement.

Looking ahead, Aristocrat appears well positioned to benefit from the continued shift towards digital gaming and the expansion of regulated online markets. With a combination of established cash-generating assets and growing digital exposure, it could deliver solid returns over the long term.

UBS currently has a buy rating and $69.00 price target on its shares. This implies potential upside of approximately 50% for investors.

NextDC Ltd (ASX: NXT)

Another ASX 200 growth share that could be a top option is NextDC.

It operates a network of data centres that provide the infrastructure required for cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and enterprise workloads. As businesses continue to digitise and invest in AI capabilities, demand for secure and high-performance data storage continues to rise.

NextDC has been expanding its footprint across Australia and has secured a growing pipeline of contracted capacity that is expected to convert into revenue over the coming years.

This provides strong visibility over future earnings and highlights the increasing demand for its services.

With structural tailwinds from cloud adoption and AI-driven workloads, NextDC appears well placed to deliver strong long-term growth.

Morgans is bullish and has a buy rating and $20.50 price target on its shares. Based on its current share price, this suggests that upside of approximately 60% is possible over the next 12 months.

The post Brokers name 2 excellent ASX 200 growth shares to buy with $10,000 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

But that's exactly what the market has handed investors this week.

A number of well-known ASX growth names have fallen sharply, with each of the five below hitting 52-week lows or worse in recent sessions. While that can feel uncomfortable in the moment, it's often where long-term opportunities start to appear.

Here are five I'd be happy to buy and hold from here.

Gentrack Group Ltd (ASX: GTK)

Gentrack isn't a household name, but it operates in a niche that is becoming increasingly important.

The technology company provides billing and customer management software to utilities and airports, both of which are undergoing significant digital transformation.

What I like here is the structural tailwind. Energy markets are becoming more complex, and utilities need better systems to manage customers, pricing, and data.

This ASX growth share has been building momentum in recent years, and while the share price has pulled back, the long-term demand for its software looks intact despite artificial intelligence (AI) disruption fears.

SiteMinder Ltd (ASX: SDR)

SiteMinder sits at the heart of travel and technology.

Its platform helps hotels manage bookings across multiple channels, which is critical in an industry that relies heavily on online distribution.

The business has been growing strongly as global travel recovers and hotels continue shifting toward more automated, cloud-based systems.

Even after a sharp share price decline, the underlying story hasn't changed in my view. If anything, the long-term opportunity remains tied to increasing digitisation across the accommodation sector.

It is also worth highlighting that management appears confident AI will support rather than disrupt its platform. In fact, it is working on an AI agent function to leverage the technology.

Cochlear Ltd (ASX: COH)

Cochlear is one of the highest-quality growth shares on the ASX.

It has a global leadership position in hearing implants, backed by decades of research, innovation, and a strong brand.

While the share price can be sensitive to short-term factors, the bigger picture is driven by demographics and healthcare demand. An ageing population and rising awareness of hearing solutions continue to support long-term growth.

For me, this is the type of business where short-term weakness can create long-term opportunity.

Temple & Webster Group Ltd (ASX: TPW)

Temple & Webster has had a volatile journey, but its long-term potential remains compelling.

It operates as an online furniture and homewares retailer, benefiting from the ongoing shift toward ecommerce in categories that were traditionally dominated by physical stores.

The business has been investing in its platform, logistics, and customer experience, which should help it capture more market share over time.

With the share price down heavily, I think the market may be underestimating how large the online opportunity could become in this space.

Aristocrat Leisure Ltd (ASX: ALL)

Lastly, Aristocrat is a global gaming and entertainment company with a strong track record.

Its core land-based gaming business generates solid cash flow, while its digital segment provides an additional growth engine.

What stands out is its ability to consistently develop successful game content, which supports both revenue and margins.

Despite its quality, the share price has come under pressure recently along with broader market weakness. For long-term investors, that could be a chance to pick up a high-quality business at a more attractive valuation.

Foolish takeaway

Gentrack, SiteMinder, Cochlear, Temple & Webster, and Aristocrat all have different drivers, but each offers exposure to long-term growth trends.

After their recent pullbacks, I think they're worth serious consideration for investors willing to take a longer-term view.

The post 5 great value ASX growth shares I'd buy and hold appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Whenever markets fall like this, quality stocks tend to get dragged down with everything else.

That's exactly what we're seeing right now, with several well-known ASX 200 stocks hitting 52-week lows. The key question is: is this an opportunity for investors?

Here's how I'm thinking about it.

CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL)

CSL has been under pressure for a while now, and this latest selloff has pushed it to fresh lows.

Sentiment has clearly turned cautious, but I don't think the long-term story has changed in any meaningful way.

This is still one of Australia's highest-quality healthcare companies, with global scale, strong margins, and a long track record of innovation.

Short-term earnings noise and investor concerns can move the share price around, but over time, businesses like CSL tend to reflect their underlying quality.

For me, this looks more like a temporary valuation reset than a structural problem.

Aristocrat Leisure Ltd (ASX: ALL)

Aristocrat has also been caught up in the broader tech sell-off, with concerns around artificial intelligence (AI) disruption weighing on sentiment.

That's understandable, but I think it may be overstated.

The company has a strong position in gaming content, world-class IP, and a growing digital segment, which gives it multiple avenues for growth.

It has also shown an ability to adapt over time, whether that's through new game development or expanding into adjacent markets.

With the share price now significantly below its highs, I think the risk-reward is starting to look more attractive.

Cochlear Ltd (ASX: COH)

Cochlear isn't the kind of company that usually trades at 52-week lows.

It's a global leader in implantable hearing solutions, with a strong brand and significant pricing power.

Like CSL, it has been dragged lower by broader market weakness rather than a clear deterioration in its long-term outlook.

Demand for its products is supported by ageing populations and increasing awareness of hearing health, which gives it a structural growth tailwind.

When high-quality healthcare names like this fall sharply, I tend to take notice.

Amcor plc (ASX: AMC)

Amcor is a very different type of business to the others, but it's also worth a look at these levels.

Packaging may not be exciting, but it is essential.

Amcor operates globally, generates steady cash flow, and pays attractive dividends. That combination can be valuable during periods of market uncertainty.

Its shares have come under pressure alongside the broader market, but the underlying business remains resilient.

For income-focused investors, this kind of pullback can create an opportunity to lock in a higher yield.

Should you buy the dip?

Market selloffs can feel uncomfortable in the moment. But they're also when some of the best long-term opportunities are created.

CSL, Aristocrat, Cochlear, and Amcor are established, high-quality ASX 200 stocks that are now trading at much lower prices than they were not long ago.

That doesn't guarantee they'll rebound immediately. Volatility could continue, especially if global markets remain under pressure.

But for long-term investors, I think this kind of weakness is worth leaning into rather than fearing.

Foolish takeaway

Sharp market declines often pull down both weak and strong companies at the same time.

Right now, I think that is creating opportunities in several ASX 200 stocks that don't often trade at these kinds of levels.

CSL, Aristocrat, Cochlear, and Amcor all have challenges, but they also have strong long-term fundamentals.

For me, this looks less like a reason to panic and more like a chance to start building or adding to positions in quality businesses.

The post CSL and these ASX 200 stocks just hit 52-week lows: Should you buy the dip? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

This is in sharp contrast to the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO), which has slipped just over 1% in the same period.

That disconnect raises an important question: has the sell-off gone too far? And could these industry leaders be set for a long-term rebound?

Analysts still rate the 3 ASX shares as buys and think they could be worth holding for the next decade.

WiseTech Global

WiseTech has been one of the hardest hit ASX shares in the past 6 months. The logistics software company has seen its share price tumble sharply with 55% to $44.60 at the time of writing.

WiseTech's CargoWise platform is deeply embedded in global supply chains. This creates high switching costs and a strong competitive moat. Once customers are on the system, they are unlikely to leave.

The tech business also benefits from a scalable software model. As more customers join, margins can expand and earnings can grow rapidly over time.

Recent concerns around governance and the potential impact of artificial intelligence on software businesses have weighed on sentiment. The company is also undergoing restructuring, which adds uncertainty in the short term.

Despite the volatility, brokers remain bullish. The stock carries buy ratings, with an average price target of $85.10, implying around 90% upside from current levels.

REA Group

REA Group, the operator of realestate.com.au, has also pulled back despite its dominant market position. The ASX share has slipped 30% in the past 6 months.

REA is the clear leader in Australia's online property listings market. Its platform benefits from powerful network effects, as buyers and sellers naturally gravitate to the largest marketplace.

The company also has strong pricing power and generates high-margin, recurring revenue from listings and subscriptions.

The property market is cyclical. Slower housing turnover or weaker listings volumes can impact revenue growth. International expansion also carries execution risk.

Analysts remain confident in REA's long-term growth. The stock holds buy ratings, with an average price target of $217.62, suggesting around 34% upside.

Aristocrat Leisure

Aristocrat has also come under pressure, despite solid underlying performance. The ASX share has tumbled 35% to $44.89 over 6 months.

The gaming giant operates across both land-based machines and digital platforms. This diversification allows it to capture growth as the industry shifts online.

Aristocrat also has global scale, a strong content library, and resilient earnings streams, particularly from its digital segment.

Gaming revenue can be sensitive to economic conditions, while regulatory changes remain an ongoing risk. Currency fluctuations can also impact reported earnings.

Even after recent weakness, brokers remain positive. The stock carries buy or strong buy ratings, with an average price target of $66.47. This points to a potential 48% upside over 12 months.

Foolish Takeaway

WiseTech, REA Group, and Aristocrat have all faced sharp selloffs that far exceed the broader market.

But these are not struggling businesses. They are industry leaders with strong competitive positions and long-term growth potential.

With analysts still firmly in the bullish camp on all 3 ASX shares, the recent pullback could offer long-term investors a chance to buy quality at a discount. And potentially hold through to 2036 and beyond.

The post 3 quality ASX shares to buy and hold until 2036 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The ASX share dropped to a new 52-week low of $44.76 on Tuesday and has now shed around 32.5% of its value this year.

To put it in perspective, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) has lost 1.15% so far in 2026.

What's behind the slide?

The company's latest results were uneven. Revenue came in below expectations, which spooked investors.

Even though Aristocrat reported record machine deployments and resilient recurring earnings from its digital gaming division, the market focused on the weaker spots.

Confidence slipped — and the price of the ASX share followed.

Strong core business

Despite the recent weakness, Aristocrat's core business remains strong.

The gaming company operates across both land-based gaming machines and mobile and digital platforms. That diversification is a major advantage. As player behaviour shifts toward online and mobile gaming, the ASX share can adapt and capture growth in both segments.

Scale is another key strength. Aristocrat is a global leader with a deep library of gaming content and strong relationships with casinos worldwide. Few competitors can match its reach or product depth.

Disciplined capital management

There are also positives on the capital management front. Management has been disciplined, supporting share buybacks and working to reduce debt. That focus can improve earnings quality over time.

In addition, the company still has growth optionality. Expansion in online gaming and potential mergers and acquisitions could provide further upside if executed well.

Growth for the ASX share might also be coming from artificial intelligence (AI). This year, AI has been a major overhang on gaming and software ASX shares.

But Aristocrat seems to be embracing AI, not avoiding it. If you look at Aristocrat's recent annual general meeting update, management is using it to speed up development, improve content and quality, and get products to market faster.

Cyclical and regulatory risks

That said, risks remain.

Gaming revenue can be cyclical. When economic conditions weaken, discretionary spending — including gaming — can come under pressure.

Regulation is another key risk for the $28 billion ASX share. Governments can change rules around gaming, which can impact operations and profitability.

Currency movements can also affect reported earnings, given Aristocrat's global footprint.

In short, investors should expect some volatility in the near term.

Analyst outlook

Even after the share price fall, analysts remain constructive on the ASX share.

Brokers generally see the recent sell-off as overdone, pointing to the company's strong fundamentals and long-term growth potential.

The average 12-month price target sits around $66.47, implying potential upside of roughly 48% from current levels.

Macquarie sees a price target of around $63. That points to a gain of 41% from current levels.

The post Is this $28 billion ASX share a bargain after reaching new lows? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

While the broader market has been volatile recently, some ASX companies now look undervalued relative to their long-term potential. That could create opportunities for investors willing to look beyond short-term market movements.

Here are three ASX shares that could be worth considering right now.

Aristocrat Leisure Ltd (ASX: ALL)

The Aristocrat share price is currently $45.56, down 1.96% today and sitting well below its levels from last year.

Aristocrat is one of the world's leading gaming technology companies. The business supplies slot machines and digital gaming content to casinos across the globe and has also built a growing presence in online gaming.

Despite the recent weakness in the share price, the company's underlying performance remains strong.

Recent broker updates suggest the market may be underestimating the company's long-term growth potential. Macquarie sees a price target of around $63, implying potential upside of roughly 40% from current levels.

If the company continues executing well, Aristocrat could still have plenty of upside left.

Bellevue Gold Ltd (ASX: BGL)

The Bellevue share price is currently $1.73, up 1.77% today.

Bellevue is a Western Australian gold producer centred around its Bellevue Gold Project. The company has attracted strong investor interest over the past year as it moves toward full-scale production.

Gold producers can benefit during periods of economic uncertainty, as investors often turn to precious metals as a defensive store of value.

Analysts remain optimistic about Bellevue's outlook. Macquarie recently raised its price target by 11% to $2, implying potential upside of roughly 16% from current levels.

If gold prices stay strong and production ramps up as planned, Bellevue could deliver strong growth from here.

Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL)

The Coles share price is currently $20.47, down 0.10% today.

Coles operates one of Australia's largest supermarket networks and remains a key player in the country's grocery sector. Because food and household essentials are everyday purchases, supermarket businesses tend to be relatively defensive during uncertain economic periods.

The company recently reported its FY26 half-year result, with earnings broadly in line with expectations despite ongoing competition and cost pressures across the retail sector.

Several brokers remain positive on the stock. Analysts currently have an average price target of around $23.03, suggesting potential upside of roughly 12% from current levels.

Coles also offers a dividend yield of around 3.6%, providing investors with reliable income alongside potential share price growth.

Foolish takeaway

While no investment is risk free, these 3 companies operate in industries with strong long-term demand.

Aristocrat is trading well below previous highs, Bellevue is benefiting from elevated gold prices, and Coles offers defensive earnings.

That combination could make these shares worth considering for investors putting $10,000 to work today.

The post The best ASX shares to invest $10,000 in right now appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

So far, in less than two weeks of the month of March, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) has dropped more than 5%. 

Yesterday provided some relief as the ASX 200 recovered slightly after a brutal Monday. 

One positive for investors is that some stocks are now priced at a relative value. 

Here are two ASX 200 stocks investors might consider buying at a low price. 

These have drawn positive forecasts from brokers moving forward. 

Megaport Ltd (ASX: MP1)

Megaport is a software-defined network (SDN) service provider that allows customers to connect between around 860 data centres globally.

The majority of its customer connections are to major cloud service providers, including AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform.

It has been caught up in the heavy tech sell-off.

The key consideration for investors is whether AI disruption will help or hinder the company's core product going forward. 

A recent report from Vanguard is worth a read for those interested in this fork in the road for Aussie tech. 

Nevertheless, this ASX 200 stock has drawn some positive targets from brokers after falling 35% year to date. 

Recently, Morgans retained a buy rating with a $16 price target on this ASX 200 stock. 

Following earnings season, Macquarie placed a price target of $23.30 on Megaport shares. 

Based on yesterday's closing price of $8.01, these targets indicate upside of 99% to 190%. 

That means a hypothetical investment of $10,000 at the current price would reach $19,000 to $29,000 in a year's time if Megaport reaches those figures. 

Aristocrat Leisure Ltd (ASX: ALL)

Aristocrat Leisure is an Australian gaming technology company licensed in approximately 340 jurisdictions across more than 100 countries. 

It offers a range of products and solutions in the gaming space, including poker machines and casino management systems.

Its share price has tumbled almost 19% year to date. 

However, analysts are suggesting it has been oversold and now could be priced at a strong value. 

During earnings season, the team at Bell Potter placed a buy rating on the ASX 200 share with a $70 price target. 

Similarly, analysts forecasts via TradingView have a one-year price target of $66.94 on the ASX 200 company. 

From yesterday's closing price of $46.47, that indicates an increase between 44% and 50%. 

If a $10,000 investment was made at the current price, and Aristocrat Leisure shares reached these targets, the initial investment would be worth up to $15,000. 

The post How much could $10,000 in these ASX 200 shares be worth by the end of the year? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

That was the case on Monday, when a spike in oil prices triggered a broad pullback across the market. Oil surged roughly 20% in a single day, which rattled investor sentiment and pushed a number of ASX shares lower.

During these kinds of selloffs, even quality businesses can get caught in the downdraft. Several well-known shares hit 52-week lows as investors rushed to reduce risk.

Rather than seeing that as a warning sign, I think these moments are a chance to look for value. 

Here are three cheap ASX shares that look particularly interesting to me after the recent weakness.

Treasury Wine Estates Ltd (ASX: TWE)

Treasury Wine Estates has been under pressure for quite some time, and the latest market selloff pushed its shares to a fresh 52-week low.

The global wine producer has faced a number of challenges over the past couple of years, including changing demand patterns in key markets and ongoing portfolio adjustments. But despite those headwinds, Treasury Wine still owns some of the most recognisable premium wine brands in the industry.

Brands like Penfolds give the company strong pricing power and a position in the premium segment of the wine market. That premiumisation strategy has been a core focus for management and remains a key driver of long-term value.

With the share price now well below previous highs, I think the market may be underestimating the long-term potential of the business.

Premier Investments Ltd (ASX: PMV)

Premier Investments is another company that hit a 52-week low during Monday's selloff.

The retail group owns Smiggle and Peter Alexander, both of which have built strong customer followings over many years.

Retail stocks often experience volatility when investors become concerned about consumer spending or economic conditions. However, Premier Investments has historically proven to be a disciplined operator with a strong balance sheet and a track record of returning capital to shareholders.

The company has also demonstrated an ability to grow its brands both in Australia and internationally, which provides additional avenues for expansion over time.

At current levels, I think the market is mis-pricing this ASX share.

Aristocrat Leisure Ltd (ASX: ALL)

Aristocrat Leisure is another high-quality ASX share that has fallen to a 52-week low and looks cheap to me.

The gaming technology company has long been one of the ASX's standout global growth stories. Its slot machine business continues to generate strong cash flow, while its digital gaming division provides exposure to the fast-growing mobile gaming market.

More recently, the company has also been investing heavily in real-money gaming opportunities, which could represent another growth avenue in the years ahead.

While concerns around industry competition and broader market volatility have weighed on the share price, I still see Aristocrat as a business with strong intellectual property, global scale, and a proven ability to grow earnings over time.

Foolish takeaway

Market selloffs can be uncomfortable, but they often create opportunities for investors willing to take a long-term view.

Treasury Wine Estates, Premier Investments, and Aristocrat Leisure are three companies that have recently fallen to 52-week lows despite owning strong brands and well-established business models.

If their long-term growth stories continue to play out, the current share price weakness could look like an opportunity in hindsight.

The post Why I think these cheap ASX shares could be strong buys appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

With that mindset, I tend to look for companies operating in large markets with strong brands, scalable platforms, or structural tailwinds behind them.

Here are five ASX shares I'd be happy to buy and hold for the next decade.

Sigma Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SIG)

Sigma has been transformed following its merger with Chemist Warehouse, creating one of the most powerful pharmacy groups in Australia.

The combined business brings together Chemist Warehouse's retail strength and brand recognition with Sigma's wholesale distribution and supply chain expertise. That combination gives the group enormous scale across both pharmacy retail and pharmaceutical distribution.

Chemist Warehouse already has a dominant position in the Australian pharmacy market and continues expanding internationally. With Sigma now integrated into the group, the merged business has the potential to unlock meaningful efficiencies and growth opportunities over time.

For long-term investors, I think the scale and brand strength of the Chemist Warehouse network make Sigma a very interesting business to watch over the coming decade.

REA Group Ltd (ASX: REA)

REA Group operates one of the most valuable digital platforms in Australia through realestate.com.au.

Property listings are a critical part of the real estate industry, and REA has built an incredibly strong position with both agents and buyers. When people search for property online in Australia, realestate.com.au is usually where they start.

That network effect has allowed REA to steadily increase pricing and expand its product offering for real estate agents over time.

Even when property volumes fluctuate with the housing cycle, the long-term shift toward digital property marketing continues to support the business. I think that structural advantage gives this ASX share a strong foundation for long-term growth.

WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC)

WiseTech Global has built one of the most ambitious technology platforms on the ASX.

Its CargoWise software helps logistics companies manage complex global supply chains. Freight forwarders, customs brokers, and logistics providers rely on the platform to coordinate the movement of goods across borders.

The logistics industry is enormous and still relatively fragmented from a software perspective. WiseTech's strategy has been to build a global operating system for the industry, integrating logistics processes into a single platform.

That vision gives the company a very large long-term opportunity. If WiseTech continues expanding its platform and integrating more of the global logistics ecosystem, its revenue and earnings could look dramatically larger over the next decade.

Aristocrat Leisure Ltd (ASX: ALL)

Aristocrat Leisure is one of the world's leading gaming companies.

The business has long dominated the global gaming machine market, supplying slot machines and digital gaming systems to casinos around the world. But in recent years, the company has also built a strong presence in mobile gaming through its social casino and mobile gaming divisions.

This combination of land-based gaming and digital gaming gives Aristocrat multiple growth drivers.

Gaming remains a highly profitable industry with strong global demand, and Aristocrat has proven over many years that it can create games that resonate with players. If it continues innovating and expanding across both casino and mobile platforms, I think this ASX share could remain a major global player for many years to come.

Block Inc. (ASX: XYZ)

Block is a global financial technology company focused on making financial services more accessible.

Through its Square ecosystem, the company provides payment solutions, point-of-sale technology, and business tools for merchants. Meanwhile, its Cash App platform offers peer-to-peer payments, banking features, and investing services to consumers.

What makes Block interesting is the scale of its ecosystem. Millions of businesses and consumers use its products every day, creating a powerful network that can support additional financial services over time.

Digital payments and fintech adoption continue to expand globally, and Block remains well-positioned to benefit from that shift as it continues building out its ecosystem.

Foolish Takeaway

Sigma, REA Group, WiseTech Global, Aristocrat Leisure, and Block all operate in large markets with long-term growth potential.

If these businesses continue executing well, I think they could reward patient investors over the next decade.

The post 5 ASX shares I'd buy and hold for the next decade appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.