2 ASX growth shares that could generate huge returns for investors

Appen Ltd (ASX:APX) and this ASX growth share could provide strong returns for investors in 2021. Here's what you need to know…

| More on:
Zig zaggy green arrow with an American note in the background.

Image source: Getty Images

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

Are you looking for growth shares to buy?

If you are, then you might want to look at the two top growth shares listed below. Here's why they are highly rated:

Appen Ltd (ASX: APX)

This artificial intelligence (AI) data services company could be a ASX growth share to buy right now. Especially given the recent weakness in the Appen share price, which has left it trading 61% lower than its 52-week high.

This weakness has been driven by a disappointing performance in FY 2020 because of the pandemic. A number of tech giants that Appen counts as customers have put off major AI projects during COVID-19. This has led to a reduction in demand and lower than expected growth rates.

While this is disappointing, this weakness should only be temporary and demand is expected to increase materially once the pandemic passes. And thanks to its leadership position in the market, Appen is well-positioned to capture this demand.

Last week Citi retained its buy rating and $30.90 price target on the company's shares. Based on the latest Appen share price, this implies potential upside of almost 83% over the next 12 months.

ELMO Software Ltd (ASX: ELO)

Another ASX growth share to consider buying is ELMO. It is a cloud-based human resources and payroll software company.

It streamlines a range of processes such as employee administration, recruitment, on-boarding, remuneration, and payroll through a single a unified platform.

Demand has been strong for its platform in recent years and this has continued in FY 2021. During the first half, the company reported a 42.8% increase in annualised recurring revenue (ARR) to a record $74.2 million.

Positively, this is still only a very small slice of its addressable market. At present the company is operating in both the ANZ and UK markets, where it has $2.4 billion and $6.8 billion opportunities, respectively. And thanks to its jurisdiction agnostic platform, ELMO has the option to expand into other regions in the future.

Morgan Stanley is positive on ELMO's growth prospects. It has an overweight rating and $9.70 price target on its shares. Based on the current ELMO share price, this equates to potential upside of 70% over the next 12 months.

James Mickleboro has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. owns shares of and recommends Elmo Software. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. owns shares of Appen Ltd. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Elmo Software. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Bruce Jackson.

More on Growth Shares

A young man sits at his desk working on his laptop with a big smile on his face.
Growth Shares

1 of the best ASX growth stocks to consider buying in July

I’m calling this stock one of the leading growth opportunities.

Read more »

a group of tech people gather around a computer operated by a young woman while the group looks on in support.
Growth Shares

3 of the best Australian stocks to buy and hold forever

These high-quality shares are rated as buys by brokers for a reason.

Read more »

$100 Australian notes on top of each other.
Growth Shares

Where to invest $10,000 into ASX shares in July

Analysts are raving about these shares. But why are they buys?

Read more »

Four piles of coins, each getting higher, with trees on them.
Growth Shares

2 ASX growth shares to buy this month: experts

These stocks are expected to have a strong next few years…

Read more »

Concept image of a businessman riding a bull on an upwards arrow.
Growth Shares

3 ASX growth shares to buy before the next bull market

These shares could fare well in the next bull market. Here's what analysts are tipping as buys.

Read more »

Two university students in the library, one in a wheelchair, log in for the first time with the help of a lecturer.
Growth Shares

3 no-brainer ASX shares to buy with $200 right now

You don't need a brain to see that these shares could be top picks right now.

Read more »

A man with a wide, eager smile on his face holds up three fingers.
Growth Shares

3 ASX growth stocks worth buying with $7,000 in your portfolio today

These stocks are all historic market beaters.

Read more »

Two smiling work colleagues discuss an investment or business plan at their office.
Growth Shares

3 ASX 200 shares with huge growth potential in the next decade

Analysts think these growth shares could be in the buy zone in July.

Read more »