I've had a look at the research coming out of Macquarie over the past week and selected three ASX shares which the analyst team thinks will do well, and which they believe can deliver about 50% upside, and 77% in one case.

Let's see who they're tipping to perform.

James Hardie Industries Plc (ASX: JHX)

The building products maker reported its full year results this week, and the shares initially fell after it was revealed  net profit attributable to shareholders was down 75% to US$104 million.

But the analysts have looked through the results, and picked up on the fact that underlying EBITDA was above the guidance range, and the synergies from the company's takeover of US company AZEK were being realised.

 The Macquarie team said:

Cost and operational execution was solid, with productivity benefits from operational improvements and plant optimisation (including a coming ~$25m from closures) helping offset volume pressure.

Macquarie said there were some soft elements in the business, and the US market looked challenging.

They reduced their price target on the company to $39.60, but this remains well above the $28.87 the shares were changing hands for on Friday.

Jumbo Interactive Ltd (ASX: JIN)

Macquarie has also cut its price target for this ASX share, but again, the price target is still much higher than where the shares are trading right now.

Jumbo is a lotteries technology and management company, and Macquarie said trackable Australian lotteries volumes were down 2% year on year.

Macquarie said the majority of Jumbo's revenue comes from a reseller agreement with Lottery Corp, which is up for renewal in August 2030.

The analyst team said Jumbo shares were trading on a valuation which suggested the renewal did not take place, "providing a free option on the outcome''.

Macquarie values Jumbo shares at $10.50 compared with $7.08 currently.

Web Travel Group Ltd (ASX: WEB)

Once again, Macquarie has downgraded its price target for this ASX share, but their target is particularly bullish on this travel operator.

Macquarie said Web Travel Group is exposed to the Middle Eastern market which presented risk at the moment, "as traveller caution remains high, and the region is having difficulties restimulating demand''.

The Macquarie team also said the company was exposed to foreign exchange headwinds from the strong Australian dollar and also mentioned the uncertainty around a recently-revealed audit of the company's Spanish operations.

They said:

Whilst near-term visibility is low due to travel market disruption and Spanish audit uncertainty, we remain constructive on WEB's ability to improve margins when the travel market recovers, as it scales over the medium term.

Macquarie has a price target of $4.34 on Web Travel Group shares compared with $2.37 currently.

The post Macquarie names 3 ASX shares to buy for 40%+ returns appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Investors have grown increasingly concerned that persistent inflation, elevated interest rates and the ongoing conflict involving Iran will weigh on global travel demand. 

Rising oil prices linked to tensions in the Middle East have also pushed up airline fuel costs and increased airfares, while higher borrowing costs and cost-of-living pressures have made consumers more cautious about discretionary spending such as holidays and business travel. 

The conflict has also created broader uncertainty around global economic growth and disrupted some flight routes and travel patterns, prompting investors to reassess earnings expectations across the tourism and aviation sectors. 

As a result, travel-related stocks have faced sustained selling pressure amid fears that demand could weaken further. 

While the bear case is clear, these headwinds are likely to prove temporary if inflation moderates, interest rates begin to ease and geopolitical tensions stabilise over the medium term.

This has created a value opportunity for ASX travel shares. 

While these headwinds are likely to persist in the short term, here are three options to consider for a long-term recovery. 

Qantas Airways (ASX: QAN)

Qantas shares currently sit close to a 52-week low. 

They are now down more than 18% year to date. 

While rising fuel costs are a threat to the bottom line this year, the airline's dominant market share that has made it a blue-chip stock remains unchanged. 

As the Motley Fool's Samantha Menzies laid out last week, Qantas' market share, expanding offshore routes and AI adoption all are green flags for the company. 

Brokers have placed an average price of $11.04 on Qantas shares. 

From current levels, this indicates an upside of almost 30%. 

Helloworld Travel (ASX: HLO)

Helloworld Travel is another example of heavily sold off travel shares. 

Year to date, its share price is down roughly 25%. 

The company consists of a wide array of travel brands across three key pillars of its business: retail, wholesale, and inbound.

Recent analysis from brokers indicates it also could be a long-term value play. 

Recently, Shaw and Partners placed a buy rating on this ASX All Ords travel share with a 12-month target of $2.80.

This implies 95% upside. 

Web Travel Group Ltd (ASX: WEB)

Web Travel Group could be another long-term focus amongst ASX travel shares. 

Its share price has crashed almost 50% year to date. 

However, it did report some solid 1H26 results recently:

• TTV up 22% on the prior corresponding period (PCP)
• Above guidance TTV margin
• WebBeds EBITDA up 21% on PCP
• Solid cash position with $481 million cash, $699 million available liquidity and a $200 million undrawn revolving credit facility. 

12 analysts offering a one year forecast on these ASX travel shares have an average target of $5.21. This indicate more than 100% upside from the current share price of $2.44.

The post Is now the time to buy ASX travel shares with brokers tipping up to 100% upside? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The de-merger saw Webjet Ltd (ASX: WJL) strengthen its focus on business-to-consumer (B2C) travel. Web Travel Group Ltd (ASX: WEB) focuses on business-to-business (B2B) travel, primarily through WebBeds, a platform that connects travel agents and hotels, airlines and online travel agencies.

The share price of Web Travel Group is down 30% over the past year, currently trading at around the $2.80 mark, down from the $5 range at the tail end of FY25. While Webjet has seen small growth, around the 10% mark, over the last 12 months to $0.58, it doesn't appear that the value investors hoped the de-merger would release has materialised. 

So, what's happening now? Is it just the current climate or is there more to the story? And are these ASX travel shares a buy right now? 

What's happening in the broader travel space?

Australians love to travel. And although cost-of-living pressures, concerns about the fuel crisis and the safety of travel during the Middle East war are putting the brakes on for some travellers, Australian travel authorities are still forecasting growth in the coming months.

But when household budgets are squeezed, travel is often one of the first items on the chopping block. And current airfare elevation due to fuel prices and supply concerns is not sweetening the pot for already stretched travellers.

Business travel is, of course, less likely to be affected by cost. However, many companies are showing caution, possibly due to safety concerns and/or the optics of extensive travel as the fuel crisis continues. In late March, it was reported that Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES) had suspended travel for all corporate team members.

Is Webjet a buy right now?

As a B2C travel brand, Webjet is feeling the pinch. Despite positive volume forecasts within the travel industry, investors are wary. Its 1H26 reporting showed a 3% decline in Total Transaction Value (TTV) on the prior corresponding period (PCP).

Webjet's discretionary, consumer-facing and volume sensitive model is exactly the kind investors tend to avoid late in an economic cycle.

That said, the business itself is not in bad shape. It has good margins within an industry known for thin ones and a net cash balance of $111.9 million with no debt. In addition, its non-air income streams are a solid contributor at over 30% of OTA revenue.

So is this ASX travel share a buy? If you believe that global travel volume will bounce back, the current share price is an attractive entry point for a business with a good balance sheet.

Is Web Travel Group a buy right now?

Web Travel Group is a different proposition as it doesn't work directly with consumers and isn't as tied to the Australian economic context. It earns its revenue from transaction volumes across a diversified global network.

It delivered some solid 1H26 results:

• TTV up 22% on the prior corresponding period (PCP)
• Above guidance TTV margin
• WebBeds EBITDA up 21% on PCP
• Solid cash position with $481 million cash, $699 million available liquidity and a $200 million undrawn revolving credit facility

Of course, this was before the Middle East war and the resulting impact on travel. Investors are clearly unsettled across the sector, with most ASX travel shares seeing significant volatility. There may also be some poor sentiment, with some investors feeling the de-merger has not delivered on its promises yet.

In addition, Web Travel Group is a more complex model, deriving revenue from across multiple jurisdictions and currencies. This complexity can make it less appealing to investors when there are significant sector-wide cyclical challenges.

That said, in my opinion, Web Travel Group is a buy right now. While it may not have fully delivered on its de-merger promises yet, for me, it is a solid global travel platform that has been temporarily mis-priced due to macro and sector uncertainty.

The post Webjet and Web Travel Group: Are these ASX travel shares a buy? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

While it doesn't operate as one of the core sectors of the ASX, "travel stocks" refer to companies that operate in the leisure, travel, or tourism sectors.

Fundamentally, travel companies sell goods and services that help people get from one place to another – be it for business or pleasure.

Why are travel stocks struggling in 2026?

Travel is largely a discretionary activity. 

That means it's not an essential need for the everyday consumer. 

A clear comparison can be made between consumer staples and discretionary companies.

Staples are goods and services we can't live without, like groceries, healthcare, or utilities. 

These companies generally have steady, non-cyclical earnings, regardless of economic factors. 

Travel stocks, on the other hand, are highly sensitive to a mix of economic factors that influence people's ability and willingness to travel. 

These factors include: 

• Economic growth (GDP) – Strong growth increases travel demand 
• Disposable income & consumer confidence – Higher income and confidence lead to more spending on travel
• Interest rates – Higher rates reduce spending power and travel budgets
• Fuel prices – Rising fuel costs increase expenses, especially for airlines
• Exchange rates – Currency strength affects affordability of international travel
• Inflation – Higher inflation raises costs and reduces real spending power
• Employment levels – More jobs can mean more people able to afford travel
• Global stability & events – Crises or disruptions can quickly impact travel demand. 

Glancing over this list, you might see why travel stocks have struggled this year, with plenty of these headwinds influencing people's ability to travel. 

However, many travel stocks have now been heavily sold off. 

This means if headwinds subside in the back half of 2026, there could be value. 

Let's look at three options to consider buying low. 

Web Travel Group Ltd (ASX: WEB)

Web Travel Group is an online travel agency that enables customers to search and book domestic and international travel flight deals, travel insurance, car hire, and hotel accommodation worldwide.

Its share price has fallen more than 44% year to date. 

However, 8 analyst forecasts via TradingView place an average price target of $5.86 on this travel stock. 

That indicates an upside of 121% from today's price. 

Flight Centre Travel Group Ltd (ASX: FLT)

Flight Centre operates a vast network of travel agencies under various brands worldwide, including Student Universe, Travel Money, Corporate Traveller, and Topdeck.

Its share price has tumbled nearly 25% year to date. 

A recent note out of Citi included a $16.75 price target on Flight Centre shares. 

This indicates a potential upside of 48% from today's opening share price of $11.30. 

Helloworld Travel Ltd (ASX: HLO)

Helloworld is an Australian-based travel distribution company. It comprises a wide array of travel brands across three key business pillars: retail, wholesale, and inbound.

Its share price is down more than 17% year to date. 

However, Shaw and Partners placed a 12-month share price target of $2.80 late last month. 

This indicates nearly 80% upside from current levels. 

The post Is it time to buy low on these ASX travel stocks? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Aussie Broadband Ltd (ASX: ABB)

Aussie Broadband shares jumped 20% higher in early February after the company announced it had signed an agreement to acquire AGL Energy Ltd (ASX: AGL)'s Telco business. As part of the arrangement, the two companies have also agreed to an exclusive long-term partnership. Aussie Broadband already benefits from a sticky customer base, and now it has the opportunity to grow even more. Analysts tip an upside as high as 47% to $7.14 a piece, at the time of writing.

Web Travel Group Ltd (ASX: WEB)

The ASX travel company's shares have crashed 43% for the year to date after news of an audit of its Spanish subsidiary spooked worried investors. The audit will review direct taxes paid (and owed) between April 2021 and March 2024, as well as indirect taxes for the period between January 2022 and December 2025. But Web Travel Group said it does not expect any material earnings impact from the Spanish tax review, and its FY26 earnings guidance is unchanged at 22% to 29% higher than in FY25. It looks like the investor sell-off was overdone. Analysts are tipping an upside as high as 170% to $7.40 at the time of writing.

Goodman Group (ASX: GMG)

Goodman Group shares have also tumbled 18% so far in 2026, amid concerns about Australia's interest rate direction, high borrowing costs, and overall investor uncertainty. There is broad weakness across the property sector, and the dent in confidence has flowed through to the latest earnings results. But I don't think the downturn is here to stay. Analysts tip an upside as high as 60% to $40 over the next 12 months, at the time of writing.

AUB Group Ltd (ASX: AUB)

Again, AUB shares are down 22% for the year so far after investors exited their positions following news that the company completed a $400 million institutional placement to help fund its acquisition of UK insurer Prestige and support growth. The placement was priced below the share price at the time. The move signalled expectations that the share price would decline. It looks like the ASX shares have now hit rock bottom. Analysts tip an upside as high as 63% to $38.90 for the next 12 months, at the time of writing.

Super Retail Group Ltd (ASX: SUL)

Super Retail Group shares have also been through the wringer in 2026. The share price shot to an all-time high after a record sales result in late February, but has slumped 20% since then amid market-wide volatility. As a retail company, Super Retail Group is heavily reliant on discretionary spending, but this is the first thing to retract when concerns about interest rates, cost of living, or economic volatility surface. Despite investor sentiment, the business remains strong and steady, so over the long term, we can expect the cyclical downturn to rebound. Analysts tip an upside of up to 50% to $19 at the time of writing for the ASX company's shares.

The post 5 ASX shares I'd buy with $5,000 today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

In fact, ASX small-cap shares outperformed the larger companies by almost 2.5 times in 2025. 

The S&P/ASX All Ords Index (ASX: XAO) delivered total returns (capital growth plus dividends) of 10.56% last year.

This index contains the 500 largest ASX listed companies, and accounts for roughly 84% of Australia's equity market. 

Meanwhile, the S&P/ASX Small Ords Index (ASX: XSO), which tracks companies ranked 101 to 300 by market cap, delivered a total return of 24.96%.

However, it appears the pendulum has now swung the other way in 2026. 

Since the start of the year, the Small Ords Index has dropped approximately 12%. 

This fall is significantly further than the All Ords Index which is down roughly 3% in the same period. 

Why are they struggling in 2026?

A small-cap stock typically has a market capitalisation ranging from a few hundred million to $2 billion.

Subsequently, these companies are much more sensitive to interest rates than bigger companies.

One reason for this is that these stocks rely more on debt and external funding. 

Additionally, many are not yet profitable, which means valuations depend heavily on future growth.

In 2026, Australia has seen elevated inflation, causing the RBA to deliver two interest rate hikes.

It seems markets are now repricing for tighter financial conditions, causing smaller companies to be hit disproportionately. 

In essence, the Small Ords Index isn't falling because "small caps are broken" – it's falling because:

• Macro conditions are flipping against them
• Liquidity is tightening
• Risk appetite dropped suddenly.

Is there any upside?

With many small-caps falling throughout the start of 2026, investors might be considering swooping in on what could appear to be a relative value. 

Some notable ASX small-caps that have fallen include: 

• Web Travel Group Ltd (ASX: WEB)
• Catapult Sports Ltd (ASX: CAT)
• Elders Ltd (ASX: ELD). 

These companies have drawn some positive outlooks from brokers, however it's important to consider that in the short term, returns could be minimal, if these economic conditions persist.

Alternatively, if investors are aiming for a more broad, diversified entry into the small-cap market, there are several ASX ETFs to consider: 

• iShares S&P/ASX Small Ordinaries ETF (ASX: ISO) – designed to track the performance of small-capitalisation Australian equities included in the S&P/ASX 300 index, but not in the S&P/ASX 100 index.
• Vanguard MSCI Australian Small Companies Index ETF (ASX: VSO) – Tracks the MSCI Australian Shares Small Cap Index. 
• VanEck Vectors Small Companies Masters ETF (ASX: MVS) – offers exposure to a diversified portfolio of roughly 61 ASX-listed small companies. 

The post What's happened to ASX small-caps in 2026? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Seek Ltd (ASX: SEK)

Seek reported robust double-digit revenue growth for the first half of FY26, but investors were underwhelmed, and the share price dived once again. The ASX 200 company's shares are now down 50% from a multi-year high recorded in September last year. 

But it looks like after a sharp pullback, Seek shares are now trading well below fair value. Analysts are expecting to see a slow improvement to hiring activity, and as a company so closely linked to the employment market, this is great news for Seek. Meanwhile, the company's engagement with AI technology could help to drive user engagement.

Analysts are tipping a 68% upside to an average target price of $24.45.

Light & Wonder Inc (ASX: LNW)

Light & Wonder posted a 4% revenue lift and 18% increase in adjusted NPATA in its FY25 results last month. It didn't do anything to boost sentiment though, and the share price has continued tumbling.

The stock is now down 37% from an all-time high posted in mid-January this year. The ASX 200 company's shares leapt 25% on announcement that it has settled its legal dispute with Aristocrat Leisure. 

Analyst sentiment still appears to be optimistic, however. Earnings results have reinforced confidence in management's execution, but some are still concerned about revenue consistency. It's also likely that a lot of pullback in the share price is investors taking gains off the table after large spikes in the company's value.

Analysts are tipping a 78% upside to $204.29 a piece.

Web Travel Group Ltd (ASX: WEB)

The ASX travel stock has recently crashed to a six-year low after a Spanish audit into Web Travel Group sent sentiment spiralling. The audit will review direct taxes paid (and owed) between April 2021 and March 2024, as well as indirect taxes for the period between January 2022 and December 2025. The news sent tongues wagging, and investors rushed to hit the sell button in a state of panic.

It looks like the selloff has been way overdone now, and the shares are very cheap.

Analysts are tipping a 125% upside to $15.01 a piece.

The post Top 3 ASX 200 shares I'd buy today with $12,000 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

After a brief dip into negative territory this morning, the ASX 200 spent the rest of the day in the green, closing up 0.31%. That leaves the index at 8,640.6 points.

The optimism that we saw on the local markets this Wednesday followed a similarly optimistic morning on the American markets.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) fared decently, gaining a timid 0.1%

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) was more decisive though, rising 0.47%.

But let's get back to the Australian markets now and check out what was happening amongst the different ASX sectors this session.

The post Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

In the last 12 months, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) has risen a healthy 9%. 

Despite this, many ASX travel shares are hovering close to 12-month lows. 

Is there any value?

Here is what experts are saying. 

Web Travel Group Ltd (ASX: WEB)

Webjet provides online travel booking services. It is an online travel agency, which enables customers to search and book the domestic and international travel flight deals, travel insurance, car hire, and hotel accommodation worldwide.

In the last 12 months, its share price has fallen more than 40%. 

At the time of writing, shares are trading for approximately $2.68. 

Much of the negative sentiment around the travel stock has come from a Spanish tax audit into Web Travel Group. 

The audit is an investigation by Spain's tax authorities into whether one of its local subsidiaries correctly reported and paid corporate and indirect taxes for several recent years. 

This sent its share price down 40% in a single day. 

Management reassured investors that only the company's Spanish subsidiary is being audited and it did not expect any material earnings impact from the Spanish tax review.

It seems with sentiment at an all-time low, there could be upside for this ASX travel stock. 

Based on 9 analyst forecasts via TradingView, Webjet shares have a one year average price target of $5.93. 

This indicates a potential upside of approximately 121%. 

Helloworld Travel Ltd (ASX: HLO)

Helloworld Travel consists of a wide array of travel brands across three key pillars of its business: retail, wholesale, and inbound. 

Its stock price closed yesterday at $1.48, down 28% from yearly highs back in early February. 

However now could be a good time to buy according to recent broker recommendations. 

Following earnings results, Morgans placed a buy recommendation on this ASX travel stock. 

Similarly, Shaw & Partners placed a $2.80 price target on the company. 

From yesterday's closing price, this indicates 89% upside. 

Flight Centre Travel Group Ltd (ASX: FLT)

Flight Centre operates a vast network of travel agencies, operating under various brands across the world, including Student Universe, Travel Money, Corporate Traveller, and Topdeck.

Its share price is sitting close to 52-week lows at $11.26 per share. 

It's down more than 30% since early February. 

However, according to brokers, its now trading at compelling value.

The team at Canaccord Genuity recently placed a price target of $16 on Flight Centre shares

Meanwhile, Macquarie has a price target of $17.95. 

UBS' recent target sits in the middle at $16.45. 

Morgan's recent target is the highest at $18.05. 

These targets indicate upside of between 42% and 60%. 

The post ASX travel shares are hovering near yearly lows – time to buy? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Whenever sentiment turns against an area of the market, high-quality businesses can get sold off alongside weaker names. That can be uncomfortable in the short term, but for long-term investors it can also create opportunity.

After the recent growth sell-off, these are the ASX shares I would be looking to buy on weakness.

Temple & Webster Group Ltd (ASX: TPW)

The first ASX growth share I would consider is Temple & Webster.

The company is often lumped in with broader retail stocks, but its model is quite different. As an online-only furniture and homewares retailer, it doesn't carry the heavy store network costs that traditional chains do. That gives it flexibility in slower periods and leverage when demand improves.

What makes the current weakness interesting is that the long-term story hasn't changed. Australian furniture retail still has relatively low online penetration compared to overseas markets. Temple & Webster continues to build brand recognition, expand its product range, improve its private-label offering, and grow its market share.

When consumer confidence eventually rebounds, the business could be operating from a stronger competitive position than before the downturn.

Web Travel Group Ltd (ASX: WEB)

Another ASX growth share I would look at after market weakness is Web Travel.

Since spinning off its consumer-facing Webjet business in 2024, this ASX growth share has been focused on WebBeds, which is its global B2B hotel distribution platform. This is a very different business to the traditional travel agency model. It connects hotels with travel agents and tour operators around the world.

Travel demand remains structurally strong, but the market tends to react sharply to any macro uncertainty. That volatility can spill over into Web Travel Group's share price, even when booking volumes and long-term travel trends remain intact.

With global tourism still normalising and scale advantages building within WebBeds, this period of share price weakness could offer patient investors an attractive entry point.

Xero Ltd (ASX: XRO)

A final ASX growth share I would buy following recent weakness is Xero.

It has been caught up in the broader tech sell-off, with investors questioning valuations and worrying about the potential impact of artificial intelligence on software businesses.

Yet the company remains deeply embedded in the workflows of small and medium-sized businesses across the world. Accounting software is not something companies switch lightly. Integrations, payroll systems, and compliance processes create meaningful stickiness.

Short-term sentiment may swing, but the structural shift toward cloud-based accounting remains intact.

The post The ASX growth shares I'd buy after the tech meltdown appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The increase is welcome news for investors after the online travel booking services company's shares crashed 41% to an 11-year low on Friday last week. The share price drop came after the ASX 200 travel stock announced that the Special Delegation of the Balearic Islands of the Spanish Tax Agency had commenced an audit of its Spanish subsidiary.

The audit will review direct taxes paid (and owed) between April 2021 and March 2024, as well as indirect taxes for the period between January 2022 and December 2025.

The news sent tongues wagging, and investors rushed to hit the sell button in a state of panic.

All eyes are still on the ASX travel stock as we wait to hear the outcome of the audit and see what will happen to the share price next.

What has happened to Web Travel Group shares this week?

Web Travel Group shares have recovered 10% of their losses since the ASX opened on Monday, when the company issued an update to investors.

Management reassured investors that only the company's Spanish subsidiary is being audited. 

Web Travel Group also said it does not expect any material earnings impact from the Spanish tax review.

The company reiterated its full-year FY26 earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) guidance of between $147 million and $155 million. That represents a 22% to 29% increase on the company's FY25 EBITDA of $121 million.

While the uptick this week is positive, the shares have a long way to go before the price recovers to pre-crash levels.

What do analysts expect from the stock this year?

Despite the downturn over the past week, analysts remain very optimistic about the company's outlook for 2026. 

Data shows that 12 out of 14 analysts hold a buy or strong buy rating on the stock. And the maximum target price is $7.40 a piece. That implies a 102.19% upside at the time of writing!

UBS has a bullish share price target on the stock of $6.15. The broker seems to be unfazed by the Spanish tax audit, saying that the company had been audited in Spain in 2024, and management "emphasised they consider this audit immaterial" on an investor call this week.

The team at Jarden also has a bullish price target of $5.70 per share. The team said the audit is immaterial and expects the company to remain on track to meet its growth targets this year.

The post Why is everyone talking about Web Travel Group shares this week? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The company issued a brief market release on Friday saying its Spanish subsidiary was being audited, which sent its shares plunging, even prompting a 'please explain' letter from the ASX itself.

The company responded, saying it did not believe the announcement was market sensitive and that the audit had been proactively announced to the market following coverage in Spanish media.

Web Travel Group shares have since made up much of the ground lost, but are still shy of the $4.20 they were changing hands for on Thursday, and are trading up 5.3% on Tuesday at $3.69.

So are the shares cheap at current levels?

I've looked at reports from three different brokers, and the consensus is that yes, at these levels, Web Travel shares are a buy.

UBS has the most bullish share price target on the stock of $6.15.

In a note to clients sent out this week, the team seemed unfazed by the Spanish tax audit, saying the company said they had been audited in Spain in 2024, and management "emphasised they consider this audit immaterial'' on an investor call this week.

The UBS team went on to say:

Minimal details given around underlying tax audit, however conference call comments should alleviate some investor concern. Pleasingly, the business is continuing to outperform the underlying travel market (and in line with expectations), which we think will be well received.

UBS is also forecasting a large dividend yield of 8.2% for Web Travel, with an anticipated total return of more than 100%.

The team at Jarden also has a bullish price target of $5.70 per share.

The Jarden team said the company gave "a reassuring update on both trading and the immateriality of the Spanish tax audit'' on the investor call.

As well as dismissing the audit as immaterial, the Jarden team said the company reaffirmed its FY26 guidance of $147-$155 million, and also reaffirmed double-digit booking growth.

The Jarden team also addressed the potential impact of AI on the business.

Web is a unique global business with a large total addressable market, within which it is growing share (>3x market) and return on invested capital. The key near-term debate will be the impact of AI and notably around disintermediation risk and AI agents ability to automate rate optimisation. However, we believe bed-banks will remain an important source in aggregating this process, with Web already far advanced with its own Ai pricing model driving conversion uplifts.

Finally, Morgan Stanley has a $4.40 price target on Web Travel shares.

The post The brokers are unanimous, this ASX travel stock is a buy appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The post Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Four ASX shares that are rising more than most today are listed below. Here's why they are storming higher:

Bravura Solutions Ltd (ASX: BVS)

The Bravura Solutions share price is up 27% to $2.28. This wealth management software provider's shares are jumping today after it upgraded its guidance for FY 2026. Bravura now expects revenue to be between $280 million and $285 million (previously $265 million and $275 million) and cash EBITDA to be between $69 million and $73 million (previously $55 million and $65 million). This reflects increased project engagement across customers and business units, which is expected to continue into the second half.

CAR Group Limited (ASX: CAR)

The CAR Group share price is up 8% to $26.51. Investors have been buying the auto listings company's shares following the release of its half-year results. CAR Group reported an 8% increase in revenue to $626 million, an 11% lift in EBITDA to $324 million, and a 16% jump in net profit after tax to $143 million. The company's managing director and CEO, William Elliott, said: "CAR Group has delivered a strong first half, achieving excellent financial results with double-digit growth across our key financial metrics. This is a great outcome and reflects the strength of the business model and the continued execution of our strategy."

Pepper Money Ltd (ASX: PPM)

The Pepper Money share price is up 27% to $2.23. This follows news that annuities company Challenger Ltd (ASX: CGF) is in advanced talks to jointly acquire Pepper Money with Pepper Group ANZ HoldCo. The proposal offers Pepper Money shareholders cash consideration equal to $2.60 per share, less any dividends. Management warned: "Discussions are ongoing, however there is no certainty that a more certain proposal will be forthcoming or that the Indicative Proposal will result in a definitive agreement."

Web Travel Group Ltd (ASX: WEB)

The Web Travel share price is up 18% to $3.49. Investors have been buying this travel technology company's shares on the cheap after they crashed deep into the red on Friday. It seems that some investors believe the market overreacted to news that Spanish authorities are auditing the company's operations in the country.

The post Why Bravura, CAR Group, Pepper Money, and Web Travel shares are storming higher appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Shares in the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) travel stock closed on Friday trading for $2.96. During the Monday lunch hour, shares are swapping hands for $3.53 apiece, up a blistering 19.3%.

For some context, the ASX 200 is up 1.8% today following on a strong day of trading in US stock markets on Friday.

Here's why Web Travel is smashing the benchmark returns today.

Web Travel share price surges on FY26 guidance confirmation

A lot of today's outperformance looks to be driven by bargain hunters, who see value in the ASX 200 travel share following Friday's trouncing.

As you may know, on Friday, the Web Travel share price closed down a painful 29.5%.

That selling action followed news that the Special Delegation of the Balearic Islands of the Spanish Tax Agency had initiated an audit of the company's Spanish subsidiary.

Management said the tax agency is reviewing the subsidiary's direct taxes paid between April 2021 and March 2024, as well as its indirect taxes paid (and owed) between January 2022 and December 2025.

Today, management looks to have eased ASX investor concerns with a timely market update.

As a quick review, Web Travel spun off its online travel agency business, Webjet Group (ASX: WJL), in September 2024. The company is now primarily focused on its B2B travel business, WebBeds.

Management today noted that WebBeds is a global business with offices in more than 20 countries and staff in more than 50 countries. They added that Web Travel is subject to tax reviews and audits each year on a regular basis.

As for Friday's announcement of the Spanish subsidiary audit that sent the Web Travel share price into a nosedive, management said they decided to "proactively inform the market, rather than reactively address investor queries as a result of the Spanish media coverage".

They also reassured investors that the taxpayer being audited is the Spanish subsidiary only.

Management added, "The Spanish subsidiary review only commenced on 5 February 2026 and we cannot make comment at this time."

And Web Travel said it does not expect any material earnings impact from the Spanish tax review.

The company reiterated its full-year FY 2026 earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) guidance of between $147 million and $155 million. That represents a 22% to 29% increase on Web Travel's FY 2025 EBITDA of $121 million.

The post Why is the Web Travel share price rocketing 19% on Monday? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Four ASX shares that are falling more than most today are listed below. Here's why they are dropping:

Electro Optic Systems Holdings Ltd (ASX: EOS)

The EOS share price was down 16% to $6.03 before being placed in a trading halt. This has been driven by a short seller report from Grizzly Research. The short seller has concerns over a Korean contract announcement. It said: "We find the statements that EOS made in the investor call dedicated to the new Korean contract announcements aggressively misleading, and sometimes bordering on outright lies." It also has doubts over a recent acquisition, adding: "Our research in the acquisition of MARSS by EOS in January 2026 uncovers a multitude of issues. We believe management has lied about past revenues and is misrepresenting the economic opportunity of this acquisition."

Lotus Resources Ltd (ASX: LOT)

The Lotus Resources share price is down 27% to $2.11. This morning, this uranium producer announced the completion of a $76 million institutional placement. These funds are being raised at $2.15 per new share, which represents a 25% discount to its last close price. The proceeds will be used to support the execution and completion of the acid plant and grid connection projects, which will optimise operating costs.

REA Group Ltd (ASX: REA)

The REA Group share price is down 9% to $165.58. Investors have been selling the property listings company's shares after its half-year result fell a touch short of expectations. REA posted a 5% increase in revenue to $916 million and a 9% lift in net profit after tax to $341 million. This was driven by a 14% increase in yield, partially offset by a 6% decline in national listings.

Web Travel Group Ltd (ASX: WEB)

The Web Travel share price is down 29% to $2.98. This follows news that the Special Delegation of the Balearic Islands of the Spanish Tax Agency has commenced an audit of Web Travel's Spanish subsidiary. It notes that the audit is reviewing the direct taxes paid and owed between April 2021 to March 2024, as well as indirect taxes for the period between January 2022 to December 2025. Whether this warrants such a sharp decline, time will tell.

The post Why EOS, Lotus Resources, REA, and Web Travel shares are dropping today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Shares in the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) travel stock closed yesterday trading for $4.20. In early morning trade on Friday, shares plunged to $2.475 each, down 41.1%. At the time of writing, in late morning trade, shares are changing hands for $2.69 apiece, down 36%.

For some context, the ASX 200 is down 1.6% at this same time.

Here's what looks to be sending investors rushing for their sell buttons today.

Web Travel share price hit on Spanish tax action

This morning, the ASX 200 travel stock announced that the Special Delegation of the Balearic Islands of the Spanish Tax Agency has commenced an audit of its Spanish subsidiary.

The audit is reviewing the direct taxes paid (and owed) between April 2021 to March 2024, as well as indirect taxes for the period between January 2022 to December 2025.

Management said that the company is cooperating with the Spanish Tax Agency.

Web Travel added that it will provide a market update for investors on the tax audit "as appropriate".

What's been happening with the ASX 200 travel share?

As you're likely aware, Web Travel spun off its online travel agency business, Webjet Group (ASX: WJL), in September 2024. That's left the ASX 200 travel stock to focus on its B2B travel business, WebBeds.

While the stock initially came under pressure following the split, the Web Travel share price managed to close 2025 modestly in the green. As of Thursday's close, shares were down 12.5% year to date. Those losses have now grown to 43.8% at the time of writing.

Web Travel ended 2025 with a bang, with shares surging 24.5% from 19 November through to market close on 31 December.

The ASX 200 stock got a big boost following the release of its half-year results on 25 November. The Web Travel share price closed up 9.3% on the day, with the company reporting an 18% increase in bookings to 5.1 million for the six months to 30 September.

And the company's total transaction value (TTV) soared 22% to a record of $3.17 billion, driving a 20% increase in revenue to $204.6 million.

Commenting on those results on the day, Web Travel managing director John Guscic said:

WebBeds continues to deliver world class TTV growth. We reported $3.2 billion TTV for the first six months of the financial year, 22% more than the same period last year, driven by the significant above-market growth coming through in our top three regions, particularly the Americas.

The post Why is the Web Travel share price crashing 41% on Friday? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

To narrow things down, let's take a look at three popular shares and see what Morgans is saying about them.

Are they buys, holds, or sells? Let's find out:

Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST)

This gold miner has been given a hold rating and $26.00 price target by Morgans. While it is a fan of Northern Star, it hasn't been impressed with its recent performance.

And with potentially more challenges to come, it thinks investors are better off sitting on the sidelines for the time being. The broker said:

NST has revised FY26 guidance lower after another soft sales quarter, cutting the midpoint ~8% to 1,650koz (from 1,775koz). The downgrade reflects ongoing operational challenges across all hubs, including grade, throughput and utilisation constraints. This marks the second guidance miss in as many years. While we remain constructive on NST's long-term growth pathway, we are adopting a more cautious (previously bullish) short-to-midterm production outlook, maintained until delivery consistency improves.

We now forecast FY26 sales of 1,589koz (-9%), marginally below updated guidance (1,600–1,700koz). We lift our AISC to A$2,770/oz, reducing forecast EBITDA and EPS by 16% and 22% respectively. Rating revised to HOLD, price target A$26.00ps (previously A$27.41ps). The downgrade partly offset by our higher spot scenario of US$3,500/oz (from US$3,250/oz).

Pro Medicus Ltd (ASX: PME)

This health imaging technology company's shares have been hammered due to the tech selloff.

Morgans thinks that this could be an opportunity to start accumulating shares and sees fair value at $290.00.

Commenting on the ASX share, the broker said:

PME's share price has continued to decline since our last update, despite stable fundamentals and a consistent outlook. This decrease appears to be due to a broader market shift away from high-growth stocks, as there have been no major new contracts or company-specific changes for PME since our previous report. Business quality remains solid with high margins, long-term contracted revenues, and a growing contract book which underpins the demand and safety in the financial profile over the coming years.

No change to valuation (A$290 p/s) and longstanding positive outlook, just a better entry point. Upgrade to an ACCUMULATE recommendation, with the view that current prices represent a reasonable opportunity for partial positions, noting ongoing volatility in the name could still yet present further downside.

Web Travel Group Ltd (ASX: WEB)

Another ASX share that Morgans thinks investors should accumulate is WebBeds owner Web Travel. It has a price target of $5.20 on its shares, which is around 11% higher than current levels.

Morgans was pleased with its recent trading update and highlights its undemanding valuation. It said:

While WEB reported strong top line growth, this did not translate into strong NPATA growth (fell 7.4% on the pcp). However, cashflow was stronger than expected and the balance sheet is in a strong net cash position. Pleasingly, WEB's trading update was stronger than expected and top line growth has accelerated. FY26 guidance was slightly stronger than expected and we have upgraded our forecasts.

WEB's outlook comments for FY27 were also upbeat. With 19% [now 11%] upside to A$5.20 price target and trading on undemanding fundamentals, we upgrade to an Accumulate recommendation.

The post Buy, hold, sell: Northern Star, Pro Medicus, and Web Travel shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

To narrow things down, let's take a look at five that brokers rate as buys. Here's what you need to know about them:

Aristocrat Leisure Ltd (ASX: ALL)

Aristocrat Leisure is a global leader in gaming content and technology. While it is best known for land-based gaming machines, the company has built a much broader business spanning social casino games and online gaming. This diversification gives Aristocrat multiple growth pathways and reduces reliance on any single market.

Bell Potter believes it is well-placed for long term growth. It has a buy rating and $80.00 price target on its shares.

Breville Group Ltd (ASX: BRG)

Another ASX growth share that has been named as a buy is Breville Group. It has carved out a premium position in the global small appliances market. Rather than competing on price, Breville focuses on design-led products and innovation, particularly in coffee machines. This strategy has allowed it to build strong brand loyalty and maintain attractive margins. As consumers continue to premiumise everyday products, Breville has room to keep scaling internationally.

Morgans has a buy rating and $36.05 price target on its shares.

Lovisa Holdings Ltd (ASX: LOV)

Another ASX growth share that could be a buy in January is Lovisa. It is a fashion jewellery retailer that is currently undertaking a major global expansion. At the last count, it was operating 1,075 stores across more than 50 markets.

Morgans has named it as one of its top picks in the retail sector. The broker has a buy rating and $40.00 price target on its shares.

Neuren Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: NEU)

A fourth share to look at is Neuren Pharmaceuticals. It is focused on treatments for rare neurological disorders, which is an area of high unmet medical need. Success in this space can lead to significant earnings growth due to limited competition and strong pricing power. For growth investors comfortable with volatility, this growth share could be worth considering.

Bell Potter is a big fan and has a buy rating and $25.00 price target on its shares.

Web Travel Group Ltd (ASX: WEB)

Finally, Web Travel Group could be an ASX growth share to buy. Following the spin-off of its consumer-facing Webjet operations in 2024, the company is now focused on its WebBeds platform, which connects hotels with travel agents and tour operators worldwide. As travel demand continues to normalise and grow, Web Travel Group's asset-light platform positions it to deliver strong earnings growth.

Macquarie has an outperform rating and $6.85 price target on its shares.

The post 5 top ASX growth shares to buy now with $5,000 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

That's because analysts rate them as top buys and are expecting them to generate big returns for investors over the next 12 months.

Here's what they are recommending to clients:

ResMed Inc. (ASX: RMD)

The first ASX 200 growth share that could be a strong buy is ResMed. It is a world leader in sleep apnoea treatment and respiratory care, serving a patient base that continues to grow as awareness improves and diagnosis rates increase.

More than one billion people globally are estimated to suffer from sleep apnoea, yet the vast majority remain undiagnosed. As testing becomes easier and healthcare systems catch up, that number represents a massive multi-decade growth runway for ResMed.

The company's device ecosystem, software solutions, and cloud-connected monitoring tools create high switching costs and drive recurring revenue. This has seen ResMed continue to expand its margins, improve operating leverage, and grow its earnings at a solid rate.

With ageing populations, rising obesity rates, and increased global focus on respiratory care, ResMed is well placed to remain a dominant global medical technology company for many decades.

The team at Macquarie is bullish on this name. It recently put an outperform rating and $49.20 price target on its shares. This implies potential upside of 30% for investors over the next 12 months.

Web Travel Group Ltd (ASX: WEB)

Web Travel could be another ASX 200 growth share to buy. Following the spin-off of its online travel business into a separate listing, the company's focus is now on WebBeds.

It is a platform that connects hotels and other travel service suppliers to a distribution network of travel buyers all over the world.

Travel demand continues to normalise globally, and wholesale accommodation platforms are benefiting from strong cross-border migration, rising mobility, and the shift toward digital booking ecosystems.

WebBeds' business model offers high scalability and attractive operating leverage. And after a mixed few years, the company's simplified structure, improving market conditions, and clearer strategic direction have positioned it well for a meaningful rebound.

Many analysts believe earnings could accelerate from here. One of those is Ord Minnett, which recently put a buy rating and $7.00 price target on the company's shares. Based on its current share price, this implies potential upside of over 40% for investors from current levels.

The post Analysts say these ASX 200 shares could rise 30% to 40% appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.