Catch these fast-rising 2 ASX shares before it's too late: Celeste

This pair of stocks rocketed up in February during reporting season, but are still great value for those willing to hop on.

| More on:
Two boys with cardboard rockets strapped to their backs, indicating two ASX companies with rocketing share prices

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

With much uncertainty hanging over both consumers and businesses, stock picking at the moment is a fraught activity.

However, there could be a pretty straightforward method to spot ASX shares worthy of buying.

Some stocks took off during last month's reporting season. And it's not an outrageous argument to hop on to these stocks that have both business and share price momentum.

The analysts at Celeste Funds Management this week named two such ASX shares this week that still have appealing prospects for further returns.

Executing well and plenty of future opportunities lined up

Shares for automotive industry software maker Infomedia Limited (ASX: IFM) went absolutely gangbusters in February.

"Infomedia rose 26.7% over the month, with the 1H23 result pointing to sales re-acceleration, good progress on cost control and a healthy sales pipeline," stated a Celeste memo to clients.

"Infomedia delivered sales growth across all regions (HoH) and made solid progress in reshaping the cost base."

The Infomedia share price has now gained more than 7% over the past year, all while paying out a dividend of 3.5%. Not bad for a period when most technology stocks suffered.

There is plenty of potential to be tapped in the near future, too.

"The company disclosed $15 million of potential annual recurring revenue opportunities, and while they still have to be won, it highlighted a refocus on client engagement by the new management team," read the Celeste memo.

"The balance sheet is net cash and Infomedia should see ongoing improved performance."

Much of the rest of the professional investment community agrees with the Celeste team. According to CMC Markets, six out of seven analysts currently rate Infomedia as a buy with five of those recommending it as a strong buy.

'Appealing exposure to a defensive industry'

While Australian Clinical Labs Ltd (ASX: ACL) shares have struggled over the past year, losing 22.5%, the stock enjoyed a massive renaissance during reporting season.

"Australian Clinical Labs rallied 16.5% during the month following a 1H23 result that beat market expectations," read the Celeste memo.

"Although COVID revenue was down (PCR testing volumes), the core business revenue grew 18%."

The Celeste analysts were impressed with the pathology service provider's cost control, as it "maintained an operating profit margin of 11%, in line with previous guidance". 

The current half is already looking great, and Celeste analysts reckon the shares are still inexpensive to buy in.

"Looking ahead, 2H23 has started strongly with Jan 23 LFL revenue growth of 22%," read the memo.

"ACL is an appealing exposure to a defensive industry and remains cheap versus listed peers."

Australian Clinical Labs is also popular with other fund managers, with four out of five analysts currently surveyed on CMC Markets rating it as a strong buy.

Motley Fool contributor Tony Yoo has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Infomedia. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Infomedia. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

More on Share Gainers

A graphic showing a businessman running up a white upwards rising arrow symbolising the soaring Magellan share price today
Share Gainers

How these 3 ASX 200 stocks led the charge higher this week

The three top ASX 200 stocks are up 14% to 34% this week.

Read more »

A man clenches his fists in excitement as gold coins fall from the sky.
Share Gainers

Why Imugene, Neuren, Sigma, and Smartgroup shares are charging higher

These shares are ending the week on a high. But why? Let's find out.

Read more »

A happy girl in a yellow playsuit with a zip gives the thumbs up
BNPL shares

Is this why the Zip share price keeps breaking records?

Zip shareholders have been enjoying a record breaking year. Is this why?

Read more »

A man and a woman sit in front of a laptop looking fascinated and captivated.
Share Gainers

Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today

It was a volatile, but positive, day for ASX shares this Thursday.

Read more »

Excited group of friends sitting on sofa watching sports on TV and celebrating.
Share Gainers

Why Block, GQG, Neuren, and Sigma shares are racing higher today

These shares are rising on Thursday. But why?

Read more »

Happy shareholders clap and smile as they listen to a company earnings report.
Share Gainers

Why Brainchip, Cooper Energy, Core Lithium, and Neuren shares are roaring higher today

These shares are having a good time on hump day. But why?

Read more »

Unsure man analysing data on laptop.
Share Gainers

Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today

ASX investors endured a rough day of trading this Tuesday.

Read more »

A mature-aged couple high-five each other as they celebrate a financial win and early retirement
Share Gainers

Why this ASX 300 stock is soaring 12% after a disastrous year

This company has had a dramatic reversal of fortunes this Tuesday...

Read more »