How to build the perfect ASX share portfolio

How is it possible? Let's find out.

A panel of four judges hold up cards all showing the perfect score of ten out of ten

Image source: Getty Images

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

Building a strong ASX share portfolio is one of the best ways to grow long-term wealth.

But what does a perfect portfolio look like?

While there's no one-size-fits-all approach, the key is to focus on diversification, quality, and a long-term mindset.

If you're looking to construct a rock-solid portfolio, here's how I would do it.

The foundation

The backbone of any great portfolio is high-quality ASX blue chip stocks—companies with strong earnings, reliable dividends, and a proven track record. These stocks help provide stability, especially during market downturns.

Some of the best ASX blue chips right now might include:

  • Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG) – A dominant player in investment banking with strong dividend payments.
  • CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL) – A global biotech leader with a history of innovation and strong earnings growth.
  • Goodman Group (ASX: GMG) – An integrated industrial property giant with a world class portfolio and sizeable development pipeline.
  • Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES) – Owner of high-quality businesses like Bunnings, Kmart, and Officeworks.

These stocks act as anchors, helping to reduce volatility while still delivering steady returns.

Don't forget ASX growth stocks

While blue chips offer stability, ASX growth stocks can supercharge returns over the long run. The key is finding businesses with strong earnings potential, innovative products, and a competitive advantage.

Some exciting ASX growth stocks to consider:

  • Pro Medicus Ltd (ASX: PME) – A fast-growing health imaging technology company dominating its market.
  • Xero Ltd (ASX: XRO) – A cloud accounting platform provider with an estimated total addressable market of 100 million small to medium sized businesses.
  • WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC) – A global leader in logistics software, expanding rapidly worldwide.

These companies may experience volatility, but over time, they have the potential to significantly increase in value.

ASX ETFs for diversification

To reduce risk and gain exposure to a broad range of industries, adding exchange-traded funds (ETFs) to your portfolio could be a smart move.

ASX ETFs allow you to own a large basket of shares with a single investment.

Here are a couple of strong ASX ETFs to consider:

  • Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ) – Provides exposure to the 100 largest non-financial companies on the Nasdaq exchange. This includes many of the largest tech companies in the world.
  • iShares S&P 500 ETF (ASX: IVV) – It invests in the 500 largest companies in the United States.

Using ASX ETFs alongside individual stocks could create a balanced portfolio with both stability and growth potential.

Stick to a long-term strategy

No matter how well you build your portfolio, staying invested is the most important part of the process.

By holding great businesses for years, you can take advantage of compound growth, which is one of the most powerful forces in investing.

Foolish takeaway

The perfect ASX share portfolio is arguably one that balances stability, growth, diversification, and income. By combining blue chip stocks, high-growth opportunities, and ETFs, you can build a resilient and profitable portfolio that stands the test of time.

Most importantly, stay patient and stick to your strategy through thick and thin.

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF, CSL, Goodman Group, Pro Medicus, WiseTech Global, and Xero. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF, CSL, Goodman Group, Macquarie Group, Wesfarmers, WiseTech Global, Xero, and iShares S&P 500 ETF. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has recommended Pro Medicus. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF, Macquarie Group, WiseTech Global, and Xero. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended CSL, Goodman Group, Pro Medicus, Wesfarmers, and iShares S&P 500 ETF. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

More on How to invest

A woman sits in a quiet home nook with her laptop computer and a notepad and pen on the table next to her as she smiles at information on the screen.
How to invest

How to build a $100,000 ASX share portfolio starting at zero

Want to build a big portfolio? Here's the easiest way to do it.

Read more »

A man holding a sign which says How do I start?, indicating a beginner investor on the ASX
How to invest

Start buying shares in December with a spare $500? Here's how!

The best time to start investing is right now.

Read more »

Suncorp share price Businessman cheering and smiling on smartphone
How to invest

How to invest your first $1,000 in the share market the smart way

My first investment would look something like this if I were starting again.

Read more »

Beautiful young couple enjoying in shopping, symbolising passive income.
How to invest

The smart way to make a $25,000 passive income from ASX shares

This could be the smart way to make your money work for you.

Read more »

Happy young couple saving money in piggy bank.
How to invest

$20,000 in savings? Here's how you can use that to target an $8,000 yearly second income

Having $20,000 saved is more powerful than most people realise. Not because $20,000 can produce an income today, but because…

Read more »

A smiling woman with a handful of $100 notes, indicating strong dividend payments
How to invest

How to turn $50 a week into a six-figure ASX share portfolio

Small investments could grow into big wealth with this strategy.

Read more »

Excited couple celebrating success while looking at smartphone.
How to invest

Why today's cheap ASX shares could double my money during the next bull market

These shares could be the ones to buy if you are looking for undervalued options.

Read more »

A businessman compares the growth trajectory of property versus shares.
How to invest

The 10-year wealth plan: how to turn small savings into life-changing results

Building wealth doesn't need to be hard. Here's a simple plan you can follow.

Read more »