The global share market has been rocked by a growing tariff trade war between the United States and other countries, including Canada, China, Mexico, and the EU. Australian shares have also suffered from the volatility.
But, while there are questions about what may happen next, I don't believe we should stop investing altogether.
I'm a big advocate for being brave during bear markets and taking advantage of lower prices. Investors may like to invest in beaten-up US tech giants, though the outlook for the US economy is less certain than it was a couple of months ago.
Hence, I believe that ASX shares could be good and appealing options right now.
Some ASX shares are more exposed to the global economy, or specifically US changes, than others, such as Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO), BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP), BlueScope Steel Limited (ASX: BSL), Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Corporation Ltd (ASX: FPH), and others.
For investors worried about the global economic picture, it could be beneficial to consider companies that generate most of their earnings from Australia. I'll run through some of the Australian shares I think could be strong buys today after dropping in value despite not having a lot of exposure to direct tariff impacts.
Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES) shares have dropped 13% since 17 February 2025. The owner of Bunnings and Kmart continues to achieve sales growth, offer customers compelling value products, deliver strong returns on capital (ROC) for shareholders, and invest for the future.
Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Co. Ltd (ASX: SOL) shares have fallen 8% since 19 February 2025. The diversified investment house has a large portfolio of ASX shares and private Australian shares. Its long-term stability and focus on Australia have served it well, and I think it could be an appealing long-term investment.
Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS) shares are only down 3% since 3 March 2025. I think the small decline reflects the market's recognition of the defensive earnings the business generates from its large Australian mobile division – I don't think people will stop using phones or the internet just because of a US tariff war. The Australian share continues to win new subscribers and increase prices.
APA Group (ASX: APA) shares are down less than 1% since 25 February 2025. The business is an energy infrastructure giant, transporting half of the nation's gas usage. It also generates earnings from renewable energy generation, electricity transmission, and other gas-related assets. I think energy demand will remain resilient.
While these are not high-flying ASX growth shares, I believe they are strong and dependable Australian shares that could be solid buys.
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