2 ASX blue-chip shares offering 'significant long-term returns'

A fund manager thinks these businesses have the potential to deliver returns for shareholders.

| More on:
An oil worker assesses productivity at an oil rig as ASX 200 energy shares continue to rise.

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

ASX blue-chip shares can offer investors both stability and good returns, if we buy at the right price.

There has been plenty of volatility in the last few weeks, pushing share prices lower and making them more appealing value.

The fund manager of listed investment company (LIC) BKI Investment Company Ltd (ASX: BKI), called Contact Asset Management, has revealed thoughts on two S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) shares in its portfolio that it is optimistic about and could deliver "significant long-term returns".

Let's look at the two potential ideas that BKI is optimistic about.

Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS)

Contact pointed out that Woodside has a global portfolio that includes oil and gas assets across Australia, the Gulf of Mexico, the Caribbean, Senegal, and Timor.

The fund manager believes Woodside has demonstrated its commitment to future growth by reinvesting through a substantial exploration program. Contact also noted Woodside has successfully delivered major projects such as the Sangomar oil development in Senegal, which achieved its first oil production in June 2024.

Contact also pointed out the ASX blue-chip share is progressing with other major growth initiatives, including the $12.5 billion Scarborough LNG project, which is now 80% complete and on track for completion in 2026. Another project, the $7.2 billion Trion development, is expected to start production in 2028.

The fund manager noted that strategic sell-downs of the Scarborough project are helping strengthen the balance sheet with $2.3 billion in cash proceeds. The Scarborough project has secured long-term LNG sales agreements for over 15mt.

Woodside has also expanded its LNG presence with the acquisition of the Louisiana LNG project in the US. The ASX energy share has entered into the lower-carbon ammonia market with an investment in Beaumont New Ammonia, which is aiming for 2025 ammonia production.

The fund manager described these projects as "generational", though they also require "substantial capital". The projects are expected to "deliver significant long-term returns", supporting Woodside shares' "attractive dividend yield". Contact has been comfortable building up a position in Woodside shares because of the amount of cash flow being generated from its projects.

According to the projection on Commsec, the ASX blue-chip share is predicted to pay a grossed-up dividend yield of 12% in FY25, including franking credits.

APA Group (ASX: APA)

APA is a major energy infrastructure business that transports a significant portion of Australia's gas around the country.

Contact was pleased by the recent FY25 half-year result, which saw "strong" financial results, according to the fund manager.

APA's revenue rose 7.1% to $1.36 billion, and operating profit (EBITDA) increased 9.1% to $1 billion. Free cash flow grew 3.6% to $552 million.

This performance was driven by newly acquired assets, increased customer demand for seasonal gas transmission capacity, inflation-linked tariff increases, effective cost management, and contributions from its long-term investment in the Pilbara Energy System, which plays a crucial role in powering the region's mining operations.

The business will deliver infrastructure projects to meet Pilbara's growing energy needs, integrating gas pipelines and renewable energy for reliable and sustainable power solutions.

In the first half of FY25, APA invested $339 million in capital investment, including the completion of the Port Hedland solar and battery project, the Kurri Kurri lateral pipeline project, and the initiation of the East Coast gas grid expansion projects.

The fund manager pointed out APA is progressing its growth projects, including the Sturt Plateau Pipeline and electricity transmission corridor development in WA.

APA is BKI's most 'active' position, with a 4.9% portfolio weight compared to an index weight of 0.4%.

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

More on Blue Chip Shares

Young female investor smiling and speaking on mobile phone while sitting in front of laptop
Blue Chip Shares

Down 28% and 23%! Should I buy either of these 2 iconic ASX 200 shares?

These ASX blue-chips are trading at much cheaper prices. Are they buys to me?

Read more »

Multiracial happy young people stacking hands outside - University students hugging in college campus - Youth community concept with guys and girls standing together supporting each other.
Blue Chip Shares

5 ASX 200 blue chip shares to buy in FY26 with $5,000

Analysts think these shares could be top picks for the new financial year.

Read more »

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

2 ASX stocks to hold for steady gains

Analysts think these stocks could deliver the goods for investors.

Read more »

A bland looking man in a brown suit opens his jacket to reveal a red and gold superhero dollar symbol on his chest.
Blue Chip Shares

The best ASX 200 blue chip shares to buy now with $3,000

Let's see why analysts think these are among the best stocks to buy right now.

Read more »

A male investor wearing a white shirt and blue suit jacket sits at his desk looking at his laptop with his hands to his chin, waiting in anticipation.
Blue Chip Shares

Are these ASX 200 blue-chip shares undervalued?

Could now be time to jump in on these struggling blue chip holdings?

Read more »

A young man punches the air in delight as he reacts to great news on his mobile phone.
Blue Chip Shares

The best blue chip ASX 200 shares to buy this month

Let's see which blue chips are best buys according to analysts at Bell Potter.

Read more »

Blue chips with stock written on them.
Blue Chip Shares

Why these ASX blue-chip shares are top buys for this fund manager

Here are two of the most appealing ASX blue-chip shares.

Read more »

A man holding a cup of coffee puts his thumb up and smiles while at laptop.
Blue Chip Shares

3 high-conviction ASX 200 shares I'd buy in June

Let's see why these strong stocks could be top picks for investors this month.

Read more »