Bargain hunting: Which ASX ETFs have fallen the most in 2025?

Looking for ETFs that could be undervalued after a rocky 2025? Here are three options to consider.

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

ASX ETFs give investors the opportunity to gain exposure to multiple holdings in just one trade. 

This diversification can help spread risk. However, ETFs are still not immune to a market downturn, as we've experienced in 2025. 

At the time of writing, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is down 4.66% since the beginning of 2025. 

The S&P 500 Index (SP: .INX) is down almost 10% and the NASDAQ-100 Index (NASDAQ: NDX) is down more than 12%. 

While it's impossible to know if we have hit the bottom of this economic downturn, it does mean quality ETFs that track these markets have also fallen significantly. 

Here at The Motley Fool we are less about trying to perfectly predict the beginning and end of a bear market and more about investing in quality holdings with a long term outlook. 

The Motley Fool's Chief Investment Officer in Australia Scott Phillips has repeatedly emphasised that over 120 years, The ASX and US market have never failed to regain, then surpass, a previous high after an economic crisis. 

So if you are looking long-term, here are three ASX ETFs that could be undervalued after a down start to the year. 

ETF in blue with person's hand in the direction of green and red bars on graph.

Image source: Getty Images

Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS)

This ETF is one of the most traded in Australia and includes companies from around 23 different countries including the U.S, Japan, U.K, Canada, France, and Switzerland.

It actively excludes Australia, which could benefit investors with high exposure to just the Australian market. 

It currently includes more than 1,300 holdings. 

Its largest holdings are largely US focussed and include Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL), Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA), and Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT). 

So far this year it has fallen 8.62%. 

However, it has provided steady returns for long term holders, up 66.23% in the last five years. 

That means hypothetically, $10,000 invested in VGS five years ago would be worth $16,623.00. 

This doesn't take into account dividends or reinvested earnings. 

BetaShares Global Sustainability Leaders ETF (ASX: ETHI)

This ETF could appeal to investors focussed on impact investing which is an investment strategy on the rise in Australia. 

It involves focussing on advancing particular social or ethical causes while still being able to generate financial returns. 

According to the fund, ETHI aims to track the performance of an index (before fees and expenses) that includes a portfolio of large global stocks identified as "Climate Leaders". 

These stocks have also passed screens to exclude companies with direct or significant exposure to fossil fuels or engaged in activities deemed inconsistent with responsible investment considerations.

Since the start of the year, the fund is down 9.54% but remains up 42.16% over the last 5 years. 

BetaShares NASDAQ 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ)

For investors looking for exposure to US markets after a down start to the year, NDQ could be worth considering. 

The BetaShares NASDAQ 100 ETF tracks the performance of the 100 largest non-financial companies listed on the Nasdaq market. 

Like VGS, its three largest holdings are Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL), Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA), and Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT). 

However, these companies represent a much larger portion of the fund. This means holders will be more exposed to rises and falls from these blue-chip stocks.

It has fallen 14.35% since the start of the year. However has brought investors strong long term growth, up 81.48% over the last 5 years. 

Motley Fool contributor Aaron Bell has positions in BetaShares Global Sustainability Leaders ETF and Vanguard Msci Index International Shares ETF. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Apple, BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF, Microsoft, and Nvidia. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has recommended the following options: long January 2026 $395 calls on Microsoft and short January 2026 $405 calls on Microsoft. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Apple, Microsoft, Nvidia, and Vanguard Msci Index International Shares ETF. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

More on ETFs

Doctor sees virtual images of the patient's x-rays on a blue background.
ETFs

ASX ETFs to target if you expect struggling sectors to rebound

These four funds could be a bargain right now.

Read more »

Five happy friends on their phones.
ETFs

3 amazing ASX ETFs that are beginner-friendly

Let's see why these funds could be great options for beginner investors in 2026.

Read more »

A bland looking man in a brown suit opens his jacket to reveal a red and gold superhero dollar symbol on his chest.
ETFs

3 BetaShares ASX ETFs I'd buy in April for long-term growth

ASX ETFs can simplify investing, but choosing the right mix still matters for long-term success.

Read more »

A woman presenting company news to investors looks back at the camera and smiles.
ETFs

5 ASX ETFs that could supercharge your portfolio

Let's see what makes these funds stand out right now.

Read more »

A man holds his baby on his lap at the dining room table while he looks at his laptop screen earnestly.
ETFs

3 ASX ETFs to buy and hold for the next decade

Looking to invest for the long term? Here are three funds to consider.

Read more »

Robot humanoid using artificial intelligence on a laptop.
ETFs

How have these new ASX ETFs been performing since inception?

These thematic funds have provided varied results.

Read more »

A picture of the US Federal Reserve podium for making media announcements.
ETFs

Has the ASX 200 or S&P 500 been a better investment this year?

Which index has brought better returns?

Read more »

Woman at computer in office with a view
ETFs

3 top ASX ETFs I'd buy and hold for 10 years (and why)

The right ASX ETFs can provide exposure to global trends without overcomplicating your portfolio.

Read more »