After a volatile start to 2026, investors are being forced to rethink what "quality" really means. The past few years rewarded momentum, rate sensitivity, and thematic trades. This year looks different. Politics is louder, rates are uncertain and capital is becoming more selective.
Against that backdrop, the ASX names likely to matter most in 2026 share three traits: durable earnings, balance sheet strength, and exposure to long-term demand rather than short-term sentiment.
Here are five ASX names worth keeping in focus as the year unfolds.
CSL Limited (ASX: CSL)
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