That usually leads me toward companies with scalable models, growing markets, and clear pathways to increase revenue. 

With that in mind, here are three ASX growth shares I would look at right now if I had $3,000 to invest.

Netwealth Group Ltd (ASX: NWL)

Netwealth is benefiting from a structural shift in how Australians invest.

More advisers are moving client funds onto platform-based solutions, and Netwealth has been capturing a growing share of that flow. As funds are added to the platform, revenue grows alongside it, creating a base that can continue to expand.

Those funds also tend to stay invested, which supports a more stable and predictable growth profile. Over time, that can create a compounding effect as new inflows build on top of an already growing base.

The business is also continuing to invest in its platform, adding new features and improving functionality for advisers. That helps it remain competitive and positions it well to keep attracting new clients.

DroneShield Ltd (ASX: DRO)

DroneShield is an ASX growth share operating in a market that is still in its early stages.

The increasing use of drones across defence, security, and civilian applications is driving demand for detection and countermeasure technology. As adoption grows, the need for protection systems becomes more important.

DroneShield has been expanding its product offering to meet that demand, with solutions that can be used across a range of environments. This allows it to target multiple markets rather than relying on a single use case.

There is also growing investment from governments and organisations in this area, which can support long-term demand. As awareness and adoption increase, the company has an opportunity to continue scaling its operations.

Block Inc (ASX: XYZ)

Block provides exposure to digital payments and financial services through two interconnected ecosystems.

Square supports businesses with payments and operational tools, while Cash App focuses on consumers. As both sides continue to grow, they reinforce each other, creating a broader and more valuable network.

This structure opens up multiple avenues for growth.

As more merchants use Square, more transactions flow through the system. As Cash App continues to grow its user base, engagement and monetisation opportunities increase. Together, they create a platform that can continue to expand over time.

Block is also moving into additional financial services, including lending and other tools (like Afterpay) that can deepen relationships with users and support further growth.

Foolish takeaway

Over time, growth often comes from businesses that can keep building as their markets expand.

I think these ASX growth shares are positioned in areas where demand is increasing and adoption continues to grow, which makes them interesting when thinking about long-term growth investing.

The post Where I'd invest $3,000 in ASX growth shares now appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Will the market be able to bounce back on Monday? Here are five things to watch:

ASX 200 expected to jump

The Australian share market looks set for a strong start to the week following a good finish on Wall Street on Friday. According to the latest SPI futures, the ASX 200 is expected to open the day 82 points or 0.85% higher. In the United States, the Dow Jones was up 1.8%, the S&P 500 rose 1.2%, and the Nasdaq jumped 1.5%.

Oil prices crash

It could be a poor start to the week for ASX 200 energy shares Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) and Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) after oil prices crashed on Friday night. According to Bloomberg, the WTI crude oil price was down 11.45% to US$83.85 a barrel and the Brent crude oil price was down 9.1% to US$90.38 a barrel. This was driven by news that the Strait of Hormuz is open again. However, conflicting news over the weekend could mean oil prices reverse these declines when Asian markets open.

TechnologyOne shares downgrade

TechnologyOne Ltd (ASX: TNE) shares are fairly valued according to analysts at Bell Potter. This morning, the broker has downgraded the enterprise software provider's shares to a hold rating with an improved price target of $31.00 (from $29.00). It said: "We downgrade our recommendation on Technology One from BUY to HOLD given the rally in the share price to above our target price. We believe the stock now looks fairly valued on FY26 and FY27 EV/EBITDA multiples of c.32x and 28x which [we] note are the highest in our coverage of S&P/ASX 100 technology stocks and well above that of WiseTech Global on c.22x and 18x."

Gold price rises

ASX 200 gold shares Newmont Corporation (ASX: NEM) and Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) could have a good start to the week after the gold price stormed higher on Friday night. According to CNBC, the gold futures price was up 1.5% to US$4,879.6 an ounce. This was also driven by the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. It is possible this gain could also reverse in Asian trade today.

Netwealth given accumulate rating

In response to its quarterly update, Morgans has put an accumulate rating on Netwealth Group Ltd (ASX: NWL) shares with a $29.00 price target. It said: "Despite ongoing volatility and uncertainty tied to a US/Middle East conflict and a potential resolution, market momentum has recovered from peak pessimism in the March Quarter, with the ASX All Ordinaries +5.6% month-to-date in April'26, which will have seen FUA growth momentum improve post quarter end. Looking through this near-term volatility NWL remains on track deliver solid growth FY26F and well placed to capitalised on the long runway of opportunity ahead. We retain our ACCUMULATE rating, with a Price target of $29.00/sh."

The post 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Monday appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Three broker buy ratings that you might want to know more about are summarised below. Here's why brokers think these ASX shares are in the buy zone:

Netwealth Group Ltd (ASX: NWL)

According to a note out of Bell Potter, its analysts have retained their buy rating and $30.00 price target on this investment platform provider's shares. Bell Potter notes that Netwealth released its quarterly update this week and delivered funds under administration (FUA) that fell a touch short of expectations. However, this FUA miss was due to a $3.7 billion negative market movement. The good news is that with markets rebounding in April, Bell Potter believes that most of this miss has now been reversed. Outside this, the broker highlights that Netwealth shares have de-rated to trade on 28x forward EBITDA. This compares to 33x through-the-cycle. Bell Potter believes there is scope for a re-rating in the future, which could make now a good time to buy. The Netwealth share price ended the week at $25.42.

Qantas Airways Ltd (ASX: QAN)

A note out of the Macquarie equities desk reveals that its analysts have retained their outperform rating on this airline operator's shares with a slightly reduced price target of $11.00. This follows the release of a market update from Qantas which revealed higher fuel costs compared to previous expectations. However, Macquarie was pleased to see that Qantas' yields have improved, which has underpinned international and domestic revenue growth ahead of estimates. In addition, it thinks Qantas is well-placed to adapt to challenges from the war in the Middle East through its accelerated fleet retirement. The Qantas share price was fetching $9.08 at Friday's close.

ResMed Inc. (ASX: RMD)

Analysts at Ord Minnett have retained their buy rating on this sleep disorder treatment company's shares with a trimmed price target of $41.40. According to the note, the broker is forecasting ResMed to deliver double-digit earnings and revenue growth in FY 2026. The good news is that it then expects this trend to continue through to at least FY 2028. Ord Minnett believes this will leave ResMed with a significant cash balance, which could lead to further capital management initiatives. Overall, it feels this makes the company's shares a top option for investors after recent weakness. The ResMed share price ended the week at $31.52.

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

Three broker buy ratings that you might want to know more about are summarised below. Here's why brokers think these ASX shares are in the buy zone right now:

Genesis Minerals Ltd (ASX: GMD)

According to a note out of Macquarie, its analysts have retained their outperform rating on this gold miner's shares with a trimmed price target of $9.10. This follows the release of the company's third-quarter update, which revealed production that was a touch short of the broker's expectations. This was due to lower grades and recoveries. Nevertheless, the company remains on track to achieve the mid-point of its production guidance in FY 2026. In light of this, its quality, and attractive valuation, Macquarie thinks that recent share price weakness has created a buying opportunity for investors. The Genesis Minerals share price is currently trading at $6.54 on Friday.

Netwealth Group Ltd (ASX: NWL)

A note out of Bell Potter reveals that its analysts have retained their buy rating and $30.00 price target on this investment platform provider's shares. Bell Potter highlights that Netwealth released its quarterly update this week. And while its funds under administration fell short of expectations, it notes that this was just to a $3.7 billion negative market movement. The good news is that with markets rebounding in April, Bell Potter believes that most of this miss has now been reversed. Outside this, it points out that Netwealth shares have de-rated to trade on 28x forward EBITDA, compares to 33x through-the-cycle. It believes there is scope for a re-rating in the future, which could make now a good time to buy. The Netwealth share price is fetching $25.42 at the time of writing.

Qantas Airways Ltd (ASX: QAN)

Analysts at UBS have retained their buy rating on this airline operator's shares with a trimmed price target of $11.25. According to the note, the broker has adjusted its forecasts to reflect fuel price volatility. It notes that surging oil prices are expected to lead to a major increase in fuel costs in the near term, weighing on earnings in FY 2026 and FY 2027. Nevertheless, the broker remains positive, especially given how it sees opportunities for Qantas to offset some of the fuel costs increase. As a result, it continues to recommend the airline's shares as a buy to clients. The Qantas share price is trading at $9.07 today.

The post Brokers name 3 ASX shares to buy right now appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Does the broker rate them as buys, holds, or sells? Let's find out:

Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN)

This gold miner delivered a solid quarterly update this week despite battling bad weather and maintenance impacts.

In response, Morgans has upgraded Evolution Mining's shares to an accumulate rating with a $16.10 price target. Commenting on the company, the broker said:

Gold production met expectations despite weather and maintenance impacts, with weaker copper and higher AISC driven by Ernest Henry disruptions. Strong 4Q26 expected to achieve FY26 guidance. Achieves net cash position with an updated capital management policy expected at its FY26 result in August. We upgrade to an ACCUMULATE (from HOLD) following recent weakness across the gold sector which we believe has uncovered value in a high-quality name, despite a strong share price reaction post the result.

Netwealth Group Ltd (ASX: NWL)

Another ASX share that Morgans has been looking at is Netwealth. In response to the investment platform provider's quarterly update, the broker has retained its accumulate rating with a $29.00 price target.

The broker notes that although Netwealth's fund under administration (FUA) fell short of expectations, this was due to market weakness. And with the market rebounding this month, it believes its FUA will have improved in the fourth quarter. It explains:

NWL's 3Q26 net-flows of $3.96bn came in modestly ahead of expectations, however market volatility during the period eroded this solid performance to see 3Q26 FUA ending the quarter flat QoQ at A$125.8bn, (vs. Consensus A$129.8bn). Despite ongoing volatility and uncertainty tied to a US/Middle East conflict and a potential resolution, market momentum has recovered from peak pessimism in the March Quarter, with the ASX All Ordinaries +5.6% month-to-date in April'26, which will have seen FUA growth momentum improve post quarter end.

Looking through this near-term volatility NWL remains on track [to] deliver solid growth FY26F and well placed to capitalise on the long runway of opportunity ahead. We retain our ACCUMULATE rating, with a Price target of $29.00/sh.

Nufarm Ltd (ASX: NUF)

Finally, Morgans was pleased with this agricultural chemicals company's guidance for the first half of FY 2026. It notes that its earnings are slightly ahead of expectations and its balance sheet deleveraging is far better than expected.

As a result, it has reaffirmed its buy rating with a $4.05 price target. It said:

Pleasingly, NUF's 1H26 EBITDA guidance was slightly higher than expected and it has had a strong 1H. Importantly, its leverage guidance is materially better than expected. Initial outlook comments for the 2H26 were positive and a new A$50m cost out program has been announced.

Given the appreciation in active ingredient and fish oil prices, NUF's previous FY26 guidance could prove to be conservative. NUF is our key pick of the ag and chemical sector. The company is materially undervalued and we reiterate our BUY rating with a new price target of A$4.05.

The post Buy, hold, sell: Evolution Mining, Netwealth, and Nufarm shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Thanks partly to the release of a strong quarterly update, the investment platform provider's shares are up 14% since this time last week.

The good news is that Bell Potter doesn't think it is too late to invest. Let's see what it is saying.

What is the broker saying?

Bell Potter was pleased with the ASX 200 stock's update and the progress the company is making. It said:

NWL has delivered a positive trading update, detailing its strongest net inflow growth since this time last year, and ahead of expectations. All client segments contributed to the result, driven by existing financial intermediaries.

To that end, we consider First Guardian as complete, with strong retail flows experienced, and no signs of account churn were offered. Distribution capabilities have also been upgraded with senior hires from other platform providers. The broker solution is progressing and on track for release with clarity around timing. We view this as a strong opportunity and catalyst.

While Netwealth's funds under administration (FUA) were a touch softer than expected, this was driven by market movements. In addition, Bell Potter notes that markets have since rebounded strongly, reversing this. It said:

NWL reported total FUA of $125.8bn against our $129.7bn estimate, which was flat QOQ and driven by a -$3.7bn market movement, which equates to -3.0% of opening. Subsequent strong positive mark-to-market impacts have reversed most of this. The local share market has advanced +5.7% while offshore indices are up +6.4%. After the dilutive impact of USD depreciation returns would be similar.

NWL continues to demonstrate a strong pipeline with record R12M net account openings and 41 new adviser relationships. This figure is usually provided each half-year. A similar level of managed account models were added during the quarter. About 30% of net inflows are directed into these. Finally, the broker solution is now expected for July release.

Should you buy this ASX 200 stock?

According to the note, Bell Potter has retained its buy rating and $30.00 price target on the ASX 200 stock.

Based on its current share price of $25.22, this implies potential upside of 19% for investors over the next 12 months.

In addition, a 1.7% dividend yield is expected over the period. This would lift the total potential return beyond 20%.

Commenting on its buy recommendation, the broker said:

Following the update, we have downgraded our EPS estimates -1% contained within FY27 and driven by steadier average FUA balances and take-rates. Our Buy rating is unchanged. NWL has de-rated to trade on 28x forward EBITDA consistent with prior risk off environments and compares to 33x through-the-cycle. We would expect the earnings catalysts and sentiment exposure to drive enhanced shareholder returns.

The post Broker says this ASX 200 stock can deliver a 20% return appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Will the market be able to bounce back from this on Friday and end the week on a high? Here are five things to watch:

ASX 200 expected to fall

The Australian share market looks set to edge slightly lower on Friday despite a decent night in the United States. According to the latest SPI futures, the ASX 200 is expected to open 12 points or 0.15% lower this morning. On Wall Street, the Dow Jones was up 0.25%, the S&P 500 rose 0.25% and the Nasdaq climbed 0.35%.

Oil prices rise

It could be a good finish to the week for ASX 200 energy shares such as Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) and Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) after oil prices rose overnight. According to Bloomberg, the WTI crude oil price is up 2.1% to US$93.19 a barrel and the Brent crude oil price is up 1.7% to US$89.65 a barrel. This was driven by concerns over Iran-US peace talks and the Strait of Hormuz.

Zip results

Zip Co Ltd (ASX: ZIP) shares will be on watch today when the buy now pay later provider releases its eagerly anticipated third-quarter update. According to a note out of Citi, its analysts are expecting Zip to announce an improved US net transaction margin despite rising bad debts as a percentage of total transaction value.

Gold price edges lower

ASX 200 gold shares Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN) and Newmont Corporation (ASX: NEM) could have a subdued finish to the week after the gold price edged lower overnight. According to CNBC, the gold futures price is down 0.25% to US$4,810.9 an ounce. Inflation and rate hike fears continue to weigh on the precious metal.

Buy Netwealth shares

Netwealth Group Ltd (ASX: NWL) shares could be good value according to Bell Potter. In response to the investment platform provider's quarterly update, the broker has retained its buy rating and $30.00 price target on its shares. It said: "Following the update, we have downgraded our EPS estimates -1% contained within FY27 and driven by steadier average FUA balances and take-rates. Our Buy rating is unchanged. NWL has de-rated to trade on 28x forward EBITDA consistent with prior risk off environments and compares to 33x through-the-cycle. We would expect the earnings catalysts and sentiment exposure to drive enhanced shareholder returns."

The post 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Friday appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

At the time of writing, the Netwealth share price is up 5.86% to $25.215, extending its gain over the past month to roughly 17%.

The rebound comes after the stock traded above $38 at its 2025 peak before sliding through much of this year.

Today's move suggests confidence is rebuilding in Netwealth's ability to keep attracting adviser and client funds despite recent market volatility.

Here's what investors are looking at today.

March quarter flows stay strong

According to the release, Netwealth reported total funds under administration (FUA) of $125.8 billion, up 20.9% on the prior corresponding period.

More notably, quarterly FUA net flows came in at $4 billion, which more than offset a $3.7 billion market movement decline during the period.

Custodial FUA net flows were $3.9 billion, up 12.5% on the prior corresponding period, while total FUA net flows excluding pension payments rose 13.6% to $4.3 billion.

The number of accounts also continued rising, increasing by 4,454 during the quarter to 176,675, which is 13.4% above the prior corresponding period.

Managed account net flows remained especially strong at $1.2 billion, up 34.8% year on year, reinforcing that advisers are still directing more client assets onto the platform.

Why this quarter landed well with investors

The market response appears tied less to the overall FUA figure and more to the strength of the underlying flows.

The March quarter was choppy, with the S&P/ASX All Ordinaries Index (ASX: XAO) falling 3.7% across the period, yet Netwealth still delivered enough net inflows to lift total FUA.

That tells us Netwealth is still winning adviser market share rather than benefiting from broader market conditions.

The update also showed platform activity stayed elevated through March. Average cash balances stayed steady at 5.7% of custodial FUA, while flows continued through existing intermediary channels.

Another encouraging detail is that higher-margin managed accounts are still expanding faster than the broader platform base.

That rapid growth should also support stronger earnings over time.

Outlook remains supportive

Management also pointed to continued progress across product initiatives, including the rollout of its individual HIN solution and broader enhancements to adviser workflow tools.

These platform upgrades can help support retention and make it easier for advisers to consolidate more client assets onto one system.

The wider industry backdrop also remains favourable.

More advisers are still moving client money away from older platforms, and Netwealth continues to capture part of that shift.

The post This beaten-down ASX financial share is bouncing back fast today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Four ASX shares that are not letting that hold them back today are listed below. Here's why they are charging higher:

AMP Ltd (ASX: AMP)

The AMP share price is up 4% to $1.45. Investors have been buying the financial services company's shares following the release of a first-quarter update. AMP reported a 45% growth in Platforms net cashflows to $1.1 billion and improved Superannuation & Investments (S&I) net cash outflows down to $80 million. The latter is a 26% year-on-year improvement. Another positive is news that AMP will be undertaking a $150 million on-market share buyback.

Life360 Inc (ASX: 360)

The Life360 share price is up almost 9% to $1.44. This is despite there being no news out of the location technology company on Thursday. However, it is worth noting that a number of ASX tech shares are rebounding today following a positive night on the tech-focused Nasdaq index. The gains have been so strong that the S&P ASX All Technology index is up a sizeable 3.7% at the time of writing.

Netwealth Group Ltd (ASX: NWL)

The Netwealth share price is up 4.5% to $24.93. This follows the release of the investment platform provider's third-quarter update this morning. Netwealth revealed a 20.9% increase in funds under administration (FUA) to $125.8 billion. This was underpinned by FUA net inflows of $7.6 billion for the quarter. Looking ahead, it expects FUA net flows to be largely in line with what was recorded in FY 2025, along with an EBITDA margin of 49%.

Ora Banda Mining Ltd (ASX: OBM)

The Ora Banda Mining share price is up a sizeable 11% to $1.46. The catalyst for this has been the release of a production update from the gold miner this morning. The company reported record quarterly production of 38,766 ounces of gold, which is up 21% quarter on quarter. Ora Banda Mining's managing director, Luke Creagh, said: "The team has done an outstanding job with the ramp-up of operations during FY26 with this quarter showing a 21% increase in ounces produced over the December period which has delivered $76.3 million in free cash flow after substantial investments into future growth projects."

The post Why AMP, Life360, Netwealth, and Ora Banda shares are racing higher today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Some companies are already large and well established. Others are still in earlier stages, quietly building the foundations for something much bigger. Finding these businesses early can make a big difference to long-term returns.

With that in mind, here are three ASX 300 shares that I think could be much bigger in five years.

Megaport Ltd (ASX: MP1)

The first ASX 300 share that could have a much larger footprint in the future is Megaport.

It is evolving from a network connectivity provider into a broader infrastructure platform. With its move into compute through the Latitude acquisition, the company is positioning itself at the centre of how businesses deploy and manage cloud and AI workloads.

This shift could significantly expand its addressable market. Instead of just connecting infrastructure, Megaport is now moving toward enabling it.

If execution is strong, the company could become a much more important player in the global digital infrastructure space.

Morgans thinks Megaport's shares are seriously undervalued. It recently put a buy rating and $16.00 price target on them, which implies potential upside greater than 100%.

Netwealth Group Ltd (ASX: NWL)

Another ASX 300 share that could be significantly larger in the future is Netwealth.

Netwealth operates an investment platform used by financial advisers to manage client portfolios. It might not grab headlines, but the business model is incredibly powerful.

As funds under administration grow, revenue tends to rise alongside it. And because the platform is highly scalable, a large portion of that growth flows through to profit.

The company has been steadily gaining market share, supported by strong technology and service. If it continues on this path, the business could look very different in five years' time.

Morgan Stanley is a fan of the company and has an overweight rating and $35.00 price target on its shares. This suggests that upside of almost 40% is possible between now and this time next year.

Temple & Webster Group Ltd (ASX: TPW)

A third ASX 300 share that could grow meaningfully is Temple & Webster.

Temple & Webster operates in online furniture and homewares, a category that is still transitioning from physical stores to digital platforms.

While the company has faced periods of volatility, it has continued to build brand awareness and expand its customer base.

What is particularly interesting is its improving profitability. As scale increases, the business has the potential to generate stronger margins.

If the shift to online continues and the company executes well, it could be significantly larger in five years than it is today.

Bell Potter is bullish on the company's outlook. It recently put a buy rating and $13.00 price target on its shares, which implies potential upside of almost 100% for investors.

The post 3 ASX 300 shares that could be much bigger in 5 years appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Netwealth Group report?

• Total FUA at 31 March 2026 of $125.8 billion, up 20.9% on the prior corresponding period (PCP)
• FUA net inflows of $7.6 billion for the quarter, up 19.4% on PCP
• Managed Account net flows reached $1.2 billion, up 34.8% on PCP
• Total number of accounts rose 13.4% year on year to 176,675
• Total FUM (funds under management) increased to $31.8 billion, up 28.5% on PCP
• Non-custodial FUA up 56.6% year on year to $1.2 billion

What else do investors need to know?

Netwealth's positive flow momentum came despite a tough quarter for markets, with the ASX All Ordinaries sliding 3.7%. The business added 41 new intermediary relationships and 4,454 new client accounts during the period, indicating strong ongoing demand for its platform.

Key strategic initiatives progressed during the quarter included the pilot phase of Netwealth's individual HIN solution for private wealth clients and numerous platform enhancements, such as new onboarding, workflow, and reporting capabilities. These innovations aim to boost adviser efficiency and client satisfaction.

What's next for Netwealth Group?

Looking ahead, Netwealth expects FUA net flows for FY26 to remain broadly in line with FY25, and projects an EBITDA margin of approximately 49% (excluding any First Guardian impacts). The business is investing around $12 million in capitalised software development and plans to base future dividends on underlying earnings, excluding any one-off items.

Management says the business remains highly profitable and cash generative, supported by recurring revenue and a strong balance sheet. They also see a sizeable opportunity in the Australian broking market as they prepare to launch the individual HIN solution more broadly in July 2026.

Netwealth Group share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Netwealth shares have declined 6%, trailing the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 16% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Netwealth Group lifts FUA to $125.8B with strong quarterly flows appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

One week, investors are chasing momentum. The next, they are heading for the exits. But while prices can move quickly, the underlying quality of a business rarely changes overnight.

That is why it can be a smart move for investors to use periods of weakness to revisit companies they already rate highly.

Right now, a few ASX shares are starting to look very interesting.

Goodman Group (ASX: GMG)

The first ASX share that could be worth a closer look is Goodman Group.

It is easy to think of Goodman as just another property company. But that misses the bigger picture.

Goodman sits at the centre of some very powerful long-term trends. Its assets are critical to ecommerce logistics and, increasingly, data infrastructure and artificial intelligence.

As demand for data centres and high-quality industrial space continues to grow, Goodman is positioning itself to benefit. And importantly, it is not just collecting rent. It is actively developing new assets and recycling capital into higher-return opportunities.

Following its share price weakness, investors have a chance to gain exposure to these structural trends through a proven operator.

Netwealth Group Ltd (ASX: NWL)

Another ASX share that deserves attention is Netwealth.

Netwealth operates a platform that helps financial advisers manage client investments. It might not sound exciting, but the business model is incredibly powerful.

As funds under administration grow, revenue tends to follow. And because the platform is scalable, a lot of that growth flows through to earnings.

The company has been winning market share steadily, supported by strong service and technology.

While its share price has been under pressure this year, the long-term growth story remains intact. That could make it worth considering this month.

Temple & Webster Group Ltd (ASX: TPW)

A third ASX share that could be worth a look is Temple & Webster.

This is a business that has had its ups and downs, particularly as consumer spending has fluctuated. But beneath that volatility is a company that continues to build a leading online furniture platform.

The shift to online retail is still playing out, and Temple & Webster is well positioned to benefit over time.

Another positive is how management has focused on improving profitability while continuing to grow its customer base. This paints a picture of a well-run business with the potential to create value for shareholders.

And when sentiment finally turns in the tech sector, this could be one of those names that rebounds strongly.

The post These ASX shares look too good to ignore after the recent pullback appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

But history shows that companies with strong competitive advantages, large market opportunities, and scalable business models can deliver outsized returns over time.

In many cases, these businesses are still early in their growth journey, which gives them a long runway to expand.

Here are three ASX shares that could have the potential to double over the next decade, or even sooner if things go their way.

Life360 Inc. (ASX: 360)

The first ASX share that could deliver strong long-term returns is Life360.

It is a family safety and location platform provider that has built a large and highly engaged global user base. Its app provides services such as real-time location sharing, driving reports, and emergency assistance.

What makes Life360 particularly compelling is its monetisation opportunity. While almost 100 million users are already on the platform, only a portion currently pay for premium features. This creates significant upside as the company continues converting free users into paying subscribers.

In addition, Life360 is expanding into new services such as advertising and partnerships, which could further increase revenue per user. With strong growth in users and improving monetisation, the business appears well positioned to scale meaningfully over time.

Netwealth Group Ltd (ASX: NWL)

Another ASX share that could be capable of doubling is Netwealth.

It provides a wealth management platform used by financial advisers and investors. Its platform allows users to manage investments, superannuation, and portfolios in a streamlined and efficient way.

The company has been consistently gaining market share from traditional providers, driven by its modern technology and user-friendly interface.

Importantly, the platform model is highly scalable. As funds under administration grow, revenue increases without a corresponding rise in costs, supporting margin expansion over time.

With structural tailwinds from the shift towards independent advice and digital platforms, Netwealth could continue growing strongly over the next decade.

Pro Medicus Ltd (ASX: PME)

A third ASX share that could deliver outsized returns is Pro Medicus.

It provides imaging software to hospitals and healthcare providers, with its Visage platform offering best-in-class, high-performance diagnostic imaging capabilities.

The company has built a strong position in the United States, where it continues to win large contracts with leading healthcare institutions. These deals are often long-term and high value, providing excellent revenue visibility.

Furthermore, the company's business model is highly scalable. Once its software is deployed, additional usage comes at minimal incremental cost, which supports very high margins.

With a large addressable market and a proven ability to win new contracts, Pro Medicus appears well placed to continue growing. If it maintains its momentum, its shares could deliver significant returns for investors over the long term, especially after a sharp pullback in 2026.

The post 3 ASX shares that could double over the next decade (or much sooner) appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The good news for investors is that there are plenty of ASX 200 shares with strong long-term growth outlooks that have pulled back from recent highs, potentially creating a buying opportunity.

If I had $6,000 to invest this month, these are three shares I would be comfortable buying.

Netwealth Group Ltd (ASX: NWL)

Netwealth is one of those businesses that benefits from a structural shift that is still playing out.

More and more financial advisers are consolidating onto platform providers that offer better technology and user experience. Netwealth has been a clear winner from that trend.

What I like is the consistency of growth. Funds under administration continue to rise, supported by strong inflows and adviser adoption. As that base grows, so does the company's recurring revenue.

There is also operating leverage in the model.

As more funds flow onto the platform, earnings can scale faster than costs over time. That is exactly the type of setup I want in a long-term compounder.

It may not look cheap even after recent weakness, but I think the quality of the business justifies that premium valuation.

Breville Group Ltd (ASX: BRG)

Breville is a very different kind of growth story. This is a consumer brand, but one that has successfully expanded beyond Australia and built a global presence.

What stands out to me is how the company continues to grow through a combination of new product development and international expansion.

Its coffee segment remains a major driver, and the broader premium appliance category appears to be holding up well, even in a more cautious consumer environment.

I also like the brand strength. Breville has positioned itself at the premium end of the market, which can support margins and help differentiate it from lower-cost competitors.

Retail can be cyclical, but I think Breville has shown it can navigate different environments while continuing to grow over time.

Codan Ltd (ASX: CDA)

Codan brings something different again. This is a business with exposure to communications technology, defence, and increasingly, drone and counter-drone systems.

That last point is particularly interesting to me. The role of drones in modern conflict is expanding rapidly, and with that comes demand for technologies that can detect, manage, and neutralise them.

Codan is positioning itself within that ecosystem through its communications and tactical solutions.

At the same time, it still has a strong metal detection business, which provides another source of earnings.

That combination gives it both stability and exposure to long-term growth themes.

Foolish takeaway

If I were investing $6,000 this month, I would be looking for a mix of structural growth, strong execution, and long-term potential.

Netwealth offers platform-driven growth in financial services. Breville provides global consumer expansion with a premium brand. Codan gives exposure to defence and communications, including the growing drone and counter-drone market.

Each has a clear pathway to growth over time. And that is what I want to be buying for the long term.

The post 3 of the best ASX 200 shares to buy this month with $6,000 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Markets have been unsettled, some sectors have sold off sharply, and sentiment is still a bit fragile. 

But that is often when I like to start building positions in businesses with strong long-term potential.

Right now, three ASX shares stand out to me for very different reasons.

DroneShield Ltd (ASX: DRO)

DroneShield is one of the more interesting opportunities on the market right now, in my opinion.

What draws me to the company is its exposure to a rapidly evolving area of defence technology.

The use of drones in modern conflicts is increasing, and with that comes the need for effective counter-drone solutions. DroneShield is positioning itself right in the middle of that shift.

I see this as a structural trend rather than a short-term one. Defence spending is rising globally, and technologies that can detect, track, and neutralise drones are becoming more important. That creates a large and expanding addressable market.

Of course, this is not without risk. Smaller companies can be volatile, and contract timing can impact results.

But from a long-term perspective, I think DroneShield offers exposure to a theme that could play out over many years.

Netwealth Group Ltd (ASX: NWL)

Netwealth is a very different type of business. Where DroneShield is more thematic and emerging, Netwealth is a proven compounder benefiting from a structural shift in financial services.

The move toward independent financial advice and platform-based investing continues to gain momentum, and Netwealth has been one of the key beneficiaries.

What I like most here is the consistency. Funds under administration have grown steadily over time, supported by strong inflows and adviser adoption. That creates a recurring revenue base that can scale as the platform grows.

There will be competition, and valuations can fluctuate. But I think the long-term trend is clear, and Netwealth is well positioned within it.

Lovisa Holdings Ltd (ASX: LOV)

Lovisa adds a different flavour again. This ASX 200 share is a jewellery retail business that has demonstrated an ability to expand globally and grow earnings through its store rollout strategy.

What stands out to me is the pace of expansion. The company continues to open new stores across multiple regions, and that growth is supported by strong margins and a relatively simple operating model.

Retail can be cyclical, and consumer spending is not always predictable. But Lovisa's focus on affordable fashion and fast product turnover gives it a level of flexibility.

I think it is one of the better examples of an Australian retailer successfully scaling internationally.

Foolish takeaway

As April arrives, I am not looking for one type of opportunity. I am looking for a mix.

DroneShield offers exposure to a powerful defence and technology trend, Netwealth provides steady platform-driven growth, and Lovisa brings global retail expansion. They are very different businesses, but each has a clear pathway to long-term growth.

The post Why I'd buy DroneShield and these ASX 200 shares next month appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Hub24 Ltd (ASX: HUB) and Netwealth Group Ltd (ASX: NWL) have slipped 12% and 15% respectively.

But zoom out, and the bigger picture hasn't changed. Australia's superannuation pool keeps growing. Advisers are consolidating platforms. And both companies are winning market share.

So, which one comes out on top right now?

Hub24: The growth rocket

This $7 billion ASX tech stock continues to impress.

Its 1H FY26 result was packed with momentum. Net inflows hit a record $10.7 billion. Revenue climbed 26% to $245.9 million. Even better, underlying net profit surged around 60% as scale kicked in.

Funds under administration reached $152.3 billion. And the company lifted its interim dividend by 50%.

That's serious growth.

But the real story is structural. Hub24 is benefiting from rising adviser adoption. More than 5,200 advisers now use the platform. And the shift toward platform monogamy — where advisers consolidate onto one provider — is playing right into its hands.

This is a business gaining share in a growing market.

The downside? Valuation.

The ASX fintech stock has had a huge run and trades on premium multiples. That leaves little room for disappointment. Fee pressure and competition from legacy players upgrading their platforms are also risks.

Still, analysts remain bullish. The team at Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG) recently upgraded the ASX tech stock to an outperform rating with a reduced price target of $92.25. That's a bit below the average 12-month price target of roughly $112.00, which points to a 39% upside at the time of writing.

Netwealth: The steady performer

Netwealth offers a slightly different story.

Its 1H FY26 result also impressed. Platform revenue rose 25%, and funds under administration hit a record $125.6 billion.

Growth remains strong.

But what really sets Netwealth apart is profitability. Its recurring fee model, high adviser retention, and sticky client base support stable margins and predictable cash flow. That's gold for long-term investors.

The company also increased its interim dividend by around 20%, reinforcing its appeal as a reliable compounder.

Risks? Similar to Hub24.

Competition is intense. Fee pressure is always a threat. And staying ahead in platform technology requires constant investment.

Still, Netwealth tends to trade at a more conservative valuation. It's not as explosive, but it's consistent.

Trading View data show that most brokers see the ASX tech stock as a buy or even a strong buy. They have set the average 12-month price target at $28.49, suggesting around 34% upside.

Foolish Takeaway

Both Hub24 and Netwealth are riding powerful tailwinds. They sit at the centre of Australia's platform shift, a space dominated by a handful of strong players.

Hub24 looks like the high-growth rocket. Strong inflows. Expanding margins. Rapid momentum.

Netwealth feels like the steady compounder. Profitable. Predictable. Built on sticky relationships.

Which is better? It depends on your style.

If you want faster growth and are comfortable with higher valuation risk, Hub24 stands out. If you prefer stability, recurring income, and a slightly more conservative profile, Netwealth may be the smarter pick.

Either way, both look well placed for the long term.

The post Hub24 vs Netwealth: Which ASX tech stock is the better buy now? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Not trading in and out. Not trying to time the market. Just identifying high-quality Australian stocks with competitive advantages and letting them compound over time.

If I were putting fresh money to work today with a 10-year mindset, these are three ASX 200 names I would be very comfortable buying and holding for the long haul.

Goodman Group (ASX: GMG)

I think Goodman Group is one of the best ways to gain exposure to some of the most powerful structural trends in the global economy.

At its core, Goodman is a property and infrastructure business. But I believe it is much more than a traditional REIT. It is increasingly a developer and owner of critical infrastructure for the digital economy.

What really stands out to me is its growing exposure to data centres. These assets are becoming essential as cloud computing, artificial intelligence (AI), and data usage continue to surge globally. Goodman is already committing significant capital to this space, with data centres making up a large portion of its development pipeline and a global "power bank" that gives it a strategic advantage in securing future projects.

I also like that it is operating in supply-constrained, high-quality urban locations. That tends to support pricing power and long-term asset values.

Importantly, its balance sheet is very strong, which I think gives management the flexibility to keep investing through cycles.

For me, this is not just a property play. I see it as a long-term infrastructure compounder tied to the growth of e-commerce, logistics, and digital infrastructure.

Netwealth Group Ltd (ASX: NWL)

Netwealth is an Australian stock that I believe is one of the clearest beneficiaries of the long-term shift toward platform-based investing and adviser-led wealth management.

What I really like is how consistently the financial services technology company has been taking market share. Funds under administration have been growing strongly, supported by steady inflows and increasing adoption by financial advisers.

To me, that speaks to the strength of its platform and the value it provides to clients.

But what makes Netwealth particularly compelling, in my view, is its technology edge.

The company continues to invest heavily in its platform, data capabilities, and increasingly in AI. I think this matters more than ever in financial services, where efficiency, personalisation, and integration are becoming key differentiators.

There is also a powerful network effect at play. As more advisers and clients join the platform, it becomes more valuable, which can help drive further growth.

Breville Group Ltd (ASX: BRG)

Appliance manufacturer Breville is another Australian stock I rate highly.

What I like most is that Breville is not competing on price. It is competing on quality, design, and innovation. That shows up in its ability to generate consistent revenue growth, driven by new product development, premium positioning, and expansion into new markets.

I also think its global growth opportunity is still underappreciated.

The brand is well established in markets like Australia and the US, but it is still gaining traction in newer regions. The company has been expanding into places like China, the Middle East, and other international markets, and early signs have been encouraging.

Another thing I find interesting is how management is leaning into technology and even AI across the business. That tells me this is not a company standing still. It is actively trying to improve operations, marketing, and product development.

Of course, consumer discretionary businesses can be cyclical. But Breville's focus on the coffee market, premium products, and brand strength seems to provide some resilience, even in tougher environments.

Over a decade, I think that combination of brand, innovation, and global expansion could deliver very attractive returns.

Foolish Takeaway

If I am buying Australian stocks to hold for a decade, I want businesses with clear competitive advantages, strong management teams, and long growth runways.

For me, these stocks tick these boxes. Goodman Group offers exposure to the digital infrastructure boom, Netwealth provides a high-quality platform business benefiting from structural industry shifts, and Breville brings a premium global consumer brand with plenty of expansion potential.

The post 3 high-quality Australian stocks I would buy and hold for a decade appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Others feel like an opportunity to lean in.

With several high-quality ASX 200 shares trading well below their highs, I think this is one of those moments where it's worth taking a closer look at strong businesses that don't often come down to these levels.

Here are three I'd be comfortable buying this week.

CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL)

CSL has had a tough run, with its share price falling significantly over the past year.

But when I look past the recent weakness, I still see one of the highest-quality biotech businesses in the world.

It operates in global plasma therapies, vaccines, and specialty medicines, with strong margins and a long history of innovation.

Short-term challenges have weighed on sentiment, but I don't think they change the long-term outlook. Demand for its products remains supported by ageing populations and ongoing healthcare needs.

For me, this looks like a case where the share price has moved more than the underlying business.

Netwealth Group Ltd (ASX: NWL)

Netwealth is another high-quality ASX 200 share that has come off its highs despite continuing to perform well.

It operates a wealth management platform that is benefiting from the ongoing shift toward financial advice and digital investment solutions.

What stands out to me is its ability to consistently attract net inflows and grow funds under administration.

That kind of momentum can compound over time, particularly as more advisers move toward independent platforms.

I think Netwealth remains a high-quality growth business with strong long-term potential and is now trading at a compelling price.

Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES)

Wesfarmers is one of those businesses I keep coming back to.

It has a diversified portfolio that includes retail, chemicals, and industrial operations, which gives it multiple earnings streams.

The company also has a strong track record of capital allocation, whether that's reinvesting in its existing businesses or making strategic acquisitions.

What I like most is its balance of stability and growth. Businesses like Bunnings provide consistent earnings, while newer initiatives offer additional upside over time.

It may not always look cheap, but when the share price pulls back, I think it's worth paying attention.

Foolish takeaway

CSL, Netwealth, and Wesfarmers are all very different businesses, but they share a common theme of quality.

They have strong positions in their industries, proven track records, and the ability to grow over time.

After recent share price weakness, I think they're worth considering for investors looking to buy high-quality ASX 200 shares this week.

The post Why I'd buy these high-quality ASX 200 shares this week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The broker highlights that the Bell Potter Australian Equity Core Portfolio aims to highlight attractive investment opportunities within the Australian share market.

It has a focus on paying the right price for high-quality ASX shares that can deliver long-term growth.

Let's see which ASX 200 shares are among its biggest holdings in the portfolio.

Which ASX 200 shares feature in the core portfolio?

Bell Potter's top five holdings in its core portfolio (in order) are ANZ Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: ANZ), WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC), News Corporation (ASX: NWS), Netwealth Group Ltd (ASX: NWL), and Capricorn Metals Ltd (ASX: CMM).

Commenting on its largest holding, ANZ, the broker said:

ANZ is our key pick amongst the banks and rises to 7.5% from 5.0%. CBA (6.0%), NAB (3.0%) and WBC (3.0%) remain underweight relative to index, but the aggregate bank exposure is now higher than it was. We are not calling for a wholesale rotation into banks, but we are recognising that in a firmer rate backdrop the earnings path is supported by higher-for-longer rates deserve more capital than we were giving them.

While the earnings backdrop is more positive, it still does not justify the valuations across the majors and this drives our underweight call. […] ANZ offers the best value in the majors, with cost control and a strong capital position.

The broker also revealed that it is sticking with WiseTech Global despite the selloff caused by AI disruption concerns. Bell Potter believes it is an adapter to AI and will not be displaced. It said:

We remain actively exposed to stocks we think will continue to do well, but we are reducing static weights as the AI trade has driven the benchmark weighting of these companies lower, and AI fears will continue to cap valuation multiples in the short-term.

The stocks we hold are (relative to other tech peers) defensible, have embedded workflows, proprietary data or measurable productivity benefits supporting the earnings path. We keep WiseTech at a lower weight of 3.5% from 4.5% (remains one of our key active positions in the portfolio), reflecting that while valuation and market sensitivity matter, the company remains on the right side of the adapter versus displaced divide.

The post Bell Potter's top ASX 200 holdings revealed appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

While this type of volatility is not unusual, some sectors have felt the pressure more than others. In particular, non-bank financials have had a challenging period, with several high-quality names seeing meaningful share price declines.

Two examples are Pinnacle Investment Management Group Ltd (ASX: PNI) and Netwealth Group Ltd (ASX: NWL). Over the past 12 months, their share prices have fallen more than 27% and 20%, respectively.

For long-term investors, periods like this often spark discussion around contrarian thinking. When sentiment turns negative, it can sometimes push share prices below what the underlying business performance might justify. That doesn't automatically mean value is present — but it can create a reason to look more closely.

So, how are these two businesses actually performing beneath the surface?

Inflows climbing

Pinnacle operates a multi-affiliate funds management platform. Rather than managing all assets directly, it takes equity stakes in specialist investment boutiques (known as affiliates) and earns a share of their fees and profits.

This model allows Pinnacle to scale across asset classes and geographies while remaining relatively capital-light.

Recent results suggest the underlying business continues to grow, even as performance fees fluctuate. Funds under management (FUM) reached $202.5 billion, up 13%, supported by record net inflows of $17.2 billion for the half.

Importantly, core earnings appear resilient. Pinnacle reported strong growth in its share of affiliate profits (excluding performance fees), with underlying net profit (NPAT) also rising solidly versus the prior period.

The variability comes from performance fees, which declined compared to the previous corresponding period — highlighting the cyclical nature of earnings in funds management.

Strategically, the business continues to expand globally, with increasing exposure to international markets and private assets, alongside new investments such as its stake in Pacific Asset Management.

Improving profitability 

Netwealth is a platform provider offering technology, administration, and investment solutions to financial advisers and their clients. It generates revenue primarily from fees linked to funds under administration (FUA) and from transaction and ancillary services.

The structural tailwinds behind the business — including the shift towards platform-based investing and independent advice — remain firmly in place.

Recent results highlight strong operational momentum. Netwealth reported FUA of $125.6 billion, up 23.6% year on year, alongside total income growth of 24.7% to $193.8 million.

Profitability also improved, with operating earnings (EBITDA) rising 23.9% and net profit after tax increasing nearly 20%.

Revenue growth has been broad-based, with platform revenue climbing 25.3%, supported by growth across administration, transaction, and ancillary fees.

The company continues to benefit from strong inflows and adviser growth, with custodial inflows of $16.4 billion for the half and expanding market share in the platform sector.

Management remains focused on investing in technology and product capability, including AI-driven enhancements, to support long-term growth and adviser productivity.

Foolish takeaway

Despite notable share price declines over the past year, both Pinnacle and Netwealth appear to be delivering solid underlying business performance.

Pinnacle's growth continues to be driven by inflows and its scalable affiliate model, while Netwealth is benefiting from structural industry shifts and strong platform growth.

As always, markets can sometimes weigh short-term uncertainty more heavily than longer-term fundamentals. If these companies can continue to grow revenue and earnings over time, a shift in sentiment could eventually see valuations move higher again.

Whether that plays out — and over what timeframe — remains something investors will be watching closely.

The post 2 beaten-down ASX financial stocks worth a closer look appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.