These 2 ASX quality stocks have been hammered — and that's exactly why they're catching my attention.
CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL) and Xero Ltd (ASX: XRO) have both fallen more than 40% over the past 12 months and are drifting near 52-week lows.
The key question: Are these warning signs or classic buy-the-dip opportunities?
For investors willing to follow Warren Buffett's playbook and buy quality during periods of fear, these two ASX stocks could be worth a serious look right now.
CSL: Powerful defensive edge
CSL shares may be out of favour, but the healthcare business remains world-class.
This is a global leader in plasma therapies and vaccines, supplying essential treatments for chronic and rare diseases. Demand is highly resilient as patients don't stop needing these products during economic downturns.
That gives the ASX stock a powerful defensive edge.
Recent results have been softer, with margin pressure, restructuring costs, and policy changes weighing on performance. That's largely what's driven the share price lower.
But there are signs of a turnaround.
Plasma collections are improving, margins are stabilising, and its Seqirus vaccine division continues to add diversification. This looks more like a reset than a structural decline.
Risks remain, of course. Any delays in earnings recovery, ongoing cost pressures, or currency headwinds could keep sentiment weak.
Still, analysts are firmly in the corner of this $67 billion ASX stock.
Broker sentiment remains broadly positive, with most maintaining buy or outperform ratings. The average 12-month price target sits around $209.40, implying roughly 47% upside from current levels.
Xero: Recurring subscription revenue
Xero has also been caught in the tech sell-off, but its long-term growth story is still intact.
The company provides cloud-based accounting software for small and medium-sized businesses, generating recurring subscription revenue across a growing global customer base.
Its platform is sticky, scalable, and deeply embedded in client workflows. That's a powerful combination.
So why the sell-off of the ASX stock?
It's not just Xero. The broader tech sector has been hit by rising interest rates, valuation concerns, and fears that AI could disrupt traditional software models.
That uncertainty triggered a sharp rotation out of ASX growth stocks.
But now, bargain hunters are stepping back in.
After months of heavy selling, Xero shares are trading at a significant discount to prior highs — and analysts are taking notice.
According to TradingView data, 12 out of 13 analysts rate the stock as a buy or strong buy. Price targets suggest potential upside of up to 195%, with some tipping the shares could reach $231.10 over the next 12 months.
Meanwhile, Citi has retained its buy rating and set a $144.80 price target. That points to around 82% upside.
The risks? Competition, AI disruption, and any slowdown in growth or margins.
Foolish Takeaway
CSL and Xero have both been heavily sold, but their core businesses remain strong.
For investors following Warren Buffett, these high-quality ASX stocks look especially compelling amid market fear and volatility.
The post I'm following Warren Buffett to snap up these cheap ASX stocks appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.
Citigroup is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. Motley Fool contributor Marc Van Dinther 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 CSL and Xero. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Xero. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended CSL. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.
The Motley Fool's purpose is to help the world invest, better. Click here now for your free subscription to Take Stock, The Motley Fool's free investing newsletter. Packed with stock ideas and investing advice, it is essential reading for anyone looking to build and grow their wealth in the years ahead. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Bruce Jackson. 2026