3 Australian Shares That Are a Strong Buy Now

With 2025 unfolding amid economic headwinds, rising global interest rates, and market volatility, smart investors are shifting focus to high-quality, future-ready companies. Whether you’re looking to build long-term wealth or seeking stable returns, the ASX has plenty of potential. But not all Aussie stocks are created equal.

Here, we spotlight three standout companies that are more than just trending tickers—they’re businesses with real growth momentum, solid balance sheets, and strategic direction. If you’re on the hunt for the best shares to buy right now in Australia, these names should be high on your watchlist:

1. Pro Medicus (ASX: PME)
2. Judo Capital Holdings Ltd. (ASX: JDO)
3. Woolworths Group (ASX: WOW)

Let’s explore why these top ASX stocks could deliver outsized returns in the years ahead.

1. Pro Medicus (ASX: PME): Med-Tech Innovation with Global Reach

Sector: Healthcare Technology
Market Cap: ~$10.4 billion
FY24 Revenue: $161.5 million (+29% YoY)
PE Ratio: ~301x
Dividend Yield: 0.17% (fully franked)
The Business

Pro Medicus develops cloud-based radiology and cardiology imaging software for global hospitals. Its flagship product, Visage 7, powers imaging at prestigious institutions like the Mayo Clinic and Partners HealthCare in the U.S.

What sets PME apart is its razor-sharp focus on a lucrative niche—diagnostic imaging software with high switching costs and long-term contracts.

Growth Drivers

• Booming demand in U.S. private healthcare
• Expansion into cardiology and AI-assisted diagnostics
• Recurring SaaS revenue model
• Zero debt and a current ratio of 7.0 = financial fortress
• FY24 operating cash flow grew to $82 million (up from $62M in FY23)

While the PE of 301x may scare some, investors are clearly paying a premium for its scalability, innovation, and 5-year revenue visibility (contracts worth over $630M secured).

Why PME is a strong buy: If you’re looking to invest in Australia with exposure to global med-tech, Pro Medicus is one of the most compelling share market picks out there. It’s pricey, yes—but its precision-targeted growth makes it a long-term winner.

2. Judo Capital Holdings Ltd. (ASX: JDO): The Challenger Bank with SME Firepower

Sector: Financials (Banking)
Market Cap: $1.69 billion
FY24 Revenue: $921 million
PE Ratio: 27x
Price-to-Book: 0.89x

The Business

Judo Capital Holdings Ltd. is shaking up SME lending in Australia. Unlike the Big Four banks that prioritize property loans, Judo focuses exclusively on helping small and mid-sized businesses grow—with a personal, tech-enhanced approach.

What Makes It Attractive?

1. Underserved SME segment in Australia, worth over $100 billion
2. Fully digital infrastructure = lower costs and faster turnaround
3. Guidance for loan book growth of 15–20% annually
4. Efficient capital deployment, exploring AI-driven loan assessment tools
5. Strong leadership and a clear vision to become “Australia’s leading SME bank”

In H1 FY24, Judo grew its lending book by over 9%, and its cost-to-income ratio improved from 54% to 53%, signaling better operational efficiency.

Why JDO is a strong buy: At under book value (P/B 0.89x), it remains undervalued despite solid earnings growth. If you’re looking for top ASX stocks with fintech flair and exposure to the real economy, Judo offers long-term upside with smart risk management.

3. Woolworths Group (ASX: WOW): Safe, Strong, and Steady

Sector: Consumer Staples (Retail)
Market Cap: ~$41 billion
FY24 Revenue: $67.9 billion (+5.6%)
PE Ratio: ~28x
Dividend Yield: ~3% (fully franked)
Capex: $2 billion (FY25e)

The Business

Woolworths is one of Australia’s largest retail giants, with a presence in supermarkets, online grocery, convenience stores, and liquor. With a trusted household name, it’s a resilient business with strong brand equity.

In a market where consumer spending is being squeezed by inflation, Woolworths stands out for its defensive moat and operational scale.

What’s Fueling Its Momentum?

• Heavy investment in e-commerce and logistics
• Strength in private label and digital loyalty programs (Everyday Rewards)
• Targeted CapEx of ~$2 billion to improve tech & efficiency
• Fully franked dividends and strong free cash flow
• FY24 profit of $1.21 billion, up 4% YoY

Woolworths is optimizing its operations while preparing for the next decade of retail—especially in online and omnichannel experiences. It’s also faring well in its liquor and convenience segments.

Why WOW is a strong buy: While not a hyper-growth stock, it’s a reliable income-generating machine. For those looking to invest in Australia for stability, dividends, and inflation resistance, WOW is a solid core holding among Aussie stocks.

Final Thoughts: Where Value Meets Vision 🌱

If you’re looking for the best shares to buy right now in Australia, think diversification.

• Pro Medicus is for those who want global growth and tech innovation.
• Judo Capital Holdings Ltd. suits those betting on a smarter future for business banking.
• Woolworths is your go-to for safety, income, and daily essential exposure.

In a world of uncertainty, these share market picks offer clarity, resilience, and forward-looking strategy. So whether you’re building a fresh portfolio or rebalancing your holdings, these three top ASX stocks deserve a long, hard look.

Because smart investing doesn’t mean chasing trends—it means backing businesses that are built to last.

Disclaimer:

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