Ask any experienced investor what their secret is, and chances are they'll tell you: consistency and compounding. Not flashy trades. Not gut-feel stock picks. Just a disciplined, long-term approach that quietly builds wealth over time.
And one of the best ways to do that? Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) — especially if your goal is a stress-free path to retirement.
You don't need to pick individual winners, time the market, or spend every weekend buried in financial reports. With the right mix of ASX ETFs, you can grow your money steadily, ride out the volatility, and — most importantly — stay the course.
Here's how I'd do it.
Where to start with ASX ETFs
A strong ASX ETF with international exposure could be a smart starting point. The iShares S&P 500 ETF (ASX: IVV) is arguably a no-brainer here — giving you direct exposure to 500 of America's largest companies. This includes Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL), Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT), and Walmart (NYSE: WMT).
Over time, the S&P 500 has delivered strong, inflation-beating returns, and this fund lets you tap into that with a single trade. It is low-cost and backed by a long track record of compounding through market cycles.
Add in some growth
Retirement might be your end goal, but that doesn't mean your portfolio has to be boring early on. If you're looking to spice things up with some local tech exposure, Betashares S&P/ASX Australian Technology ETF (ASX: ATEC) could be a great addition.
It holds Aussie tech stars like WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC) and Xero Ltd (ASX: XRO) — businesses with big ambitions and scalable growth models. It is higher risk, but that's what makes it a great long-term diversifier if you're not retiring tomorrow. Betashares recently tipped it as one to buy.
Add dividends later on
As you get closer to retirement, income becomes even more important than growth. That's where the Vanguard Australian Shares High Yield ETF (ASX: VHY) comes in. It focuses on Australian companies with above-average dividend yields — think banks, miners, and utilities — and delivers income straight to your pocket every quarter.
It is also rebalanced periodically, so it keeps holding what's working. For anyone looking to turn capital into a reliable income stream down the track, this ASX ETF is worth serious consideration.
Foolish takeaway
The road to retirement doesn't have to be complicated — but it does need a plan.
Start early. Stay invested. Let time and compounding do the heavy lifting. If you do, then ASX ETFs could help you retire not just comfortably — but rich.
