Why these small cap ASX shares could deliver very big returns in 2025

High risk, high reward is the game with these shares according to analysts.

| More on:
A man raises his reading glasses in a look of surprise.

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

Investors with a high risk tolerance may want to take a look at the small cap ASX shares in this article.

That's because they have just been named as buys and tipped to rise materially from current levels.

Here's what analysts are saying about these small caps in January:

Paradigm Biopharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: PAR)

The first small cap ASX share for investors to look at is Paradigm Biopharmaceuticals.

It is a biotechnology company that is focused on repurposing Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium (PPS) for the treatment of osteoarthritis (OA) in the knee.

The team at Bell Potter believes the company would have a lucrative market opportunity if it is approved. IT notes that the "global market for a safe, effective treatment that provides superior patient outcomes compared to the standard of care is a multiple blockbuster." The broker adds:

In the US along the incidence of moderate to severe osteoarthritis is estimated at 30m persons. The pricing of the drug will ultimately be determined by the economic benefit associated with its use as well as the cost of other therapies. The conservative estimate is US$2,500 per year which places the addressable market in the tens of billions of US$.

Bell Potter has a speculative buy rating and 80 cents price target on its shares last week. Based on its current share price of 46.5 cents, this implies potential upside of approximately 72% for investors over the next 12 months.

Readytech Holdings Ltd (ASX: RDY)

Another small cap ASX share that could be a buy according to analysts is Readytech.

Readytech is a software as a service (SaaS) provider of mission critical software to the tertiary education, government, justice, and enterprise markets.

The team at Morgans believes that the company would be a great option for investors right now due to its strong earnings growth outlook and attractive valuation. It explains:

Its products include student management, payroll and HR solutions, and enterprise resource planning (ERP) to local government and legal case management. RDY's recent organic growth trajectory demonstrates its ability to deliver our forecast 14.5% CAGR EBITDA growth over coming years.

Despite this, the company is trading at a ~20% discount to its historic average EBITDA multiple of ~11x, which we believe represents compelling value.

Morgans has an add rating and $3.74 price target on its shares. This implies potential upside of 19% for investors over the next 12 months.

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro 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 ReadyTech. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended ReadyTech. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

More on Small Cap Shares

Three people in a corporate office pour over a tablet, ready to invest.
Small Cap Shares

Hidden gems: Experts name 3 ASX small-cap shares to buy now

One of these ASX small-cap shares has risen by a staggering 1,687% over the past 12 months.

Read more »

A woman presenting company news to investors looks back at the camera and smiles.
Small Cap Shares

These ASX small cap shares could be tomorrow's blue chips

Analysts think these small caps could be great picks right now.

Read more »

A elder man and woman lean over their balcony with a cuppa, indicating share rpice movement for ASX retirement shares
Small Cap Shares

Why I think this ASX small-cap stock is a bargain at 58 cents

This stock looks like a great buy, in my opinion.

Read more »

A young boy wearing a hat, sunnies and striped singlet looks fierce and flexes his arm in victory.
Small Cap Shares

Forget CBA shares. What about small-cap ASX financial shares?

Analysts discuss 2 small-cap ASX financial shares that are up by more than 40% in 2025.

Read more »

A bearded man holds both arms up diagonally and points with his index fingers to the sky with a thrilled look on his face over these rising Tassal share price
Small Cap Shares

Bell Potter says this small cap ASX stock can rocket 100%

The broker expects big returns from this small cap. Let's find out why it is bullish.

Read more »

A young man working from home sits at his home office desk holding a cup of tea and looking out the window
Small Cap Shares

Morgans says these small cap ASX shares can rise 40% to 100%

Big returns could be coming from these small caps according to the broker.

Read more »

A young male ASX investor raises his clenched fists in excitement because of rising ASX share prices today
Small Cap Shares

These small cap ASX shares could rise 50% to 65%

The team at Bell Potter is bullish on these names. Let's find out why.

Read more »

A smiling businessman in the city looks at his phone and punches the air in celebration of good news.
Small Cap Shares

Want to beat the stock market? I'd focus on buying these ASX shares

I think these ASX shares offer plenty of promise.

Read more »