How one allocates their own ASX share portfolio is obviously a very personal decision. We are all different people and investors, with different goals, risk tolerances and personalities. One ASX share might be right for one investor, and wrong for another.
For example, a retiree may appreciate the high dividends that an ASX bank share like Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC) doles out. But a younger investor might wish to go for something with a bit more of a growth profile.
There's no right way to invest when it comes to shares (although there are many wrong ways).
With all this in mind, let's discuss how I allocate my own share market portfolio. As discussed above, this is what works for me, and my own strengths and weaknesses.
Now, I have many many different holdings across my portfolio. So I won't discuss all of them. But I will touch on some theses and strategies that I tend to follow, and explain why.
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ASX shares, dividends and franking credits
So to start with, I own a mix of ASX and US shares. This is for many reasons. I love the franking credits and local knowledge that makes ASX investing so rewarding.
But I also love the currency, geographic and economic diversity that comes from investing in the United States. What's more, most of the best companies in the world call the US home.
My selection process is a rather simple one: I look for quality companies, usually with a strong brand, that have demonstrated competency and resiliency over a long period of time.
Let's start with the ASX shares. So I do like a share that pays dividends, preferably those of the fully franked variety. One of my oldest holdings is Telstra Corporation Ltd (ASX: TLS).
I bought Telstra back in 2018 when it was trading for under $2.80 a share. The market hated it then, but I saw a company with a dominant brand providing an essential service. I continue to hold it today for those same reasons.
Another ASX share that is a long-term favourite of mine is National Australia Bank Ltd (ASX: NAB). NAB doesn't have the pricing premium that Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) does. But I still think it is one of the best-run ASX banks.
My favourite ASX share, though, is Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Co Ltd (ASX: SOL). I've discussed my love of Soul Patts before. But quite simply, it is a diversified market beater with an unmatched dividend record.
Looking across the pacific for my portfolio
Turning to US shares, and again my preference is strong brands and a proven track record. That's why my US shares include names like Apple, Microsoft, Mastercard, Alphabet, Nike and Amazon.
Tesla Inc (NASDAQ: TSLA) is another company that I own. When I first invested in the electric car maker, it was one of my riskier shares. But I have been delighted to see the company grow in size and scale (not to mention value).
Most of my other US shares are within the consumer staples sector. I love the resilience and stability that these kinds of shares can add to a portfolio, as well as the dividends, of course. Among my favourites are Coca-Cola, Pepsi, Starbucks and McDonald's.
Many of these companies have made a habit of raising their dividend every single year, so I have enjoyed watching my dividend income inch up steadily over the years.
So that's my ASX share portfolio in a nutshell and why I own the companies that I do. As I said, it may not be for everyone. But it works for me and my goals. And I sleep soundly every night. What more could one ask for?
