When you're just starting out in the share market, it is easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of choices.
But here's the truth: sometimes, keeping it simple is the smartest move — and with just a few well-chosen ASX exchange-traded funds (ETFs), beginner investors can build a diversified, long-term portfolio that does the hard work for them.
With that in mind, let's take a look at three ASX ETFs that I think a beginner could buy to start strong and stay invested for the long haul.
Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS)
Let's begin with the basics. The Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF tracks the S&P/ASX 300 index, giving you exposure to the largest 300 companies listed on the Australian share market. That means you're investing in household names like Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA), BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP), Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES), and Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW) — all in one easy trade.
It is a simple way to own a broad slice of the Australian economy and benefit from regular dividend income, including franking credits. The Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF is a popular core holding for good reason: it's low cost, diversified, and a great way to get exposure to stable, income-generating blue chips.
iShares S&P 500 ETF (ASX: IVV)
The Australian market is strong, but it is also small on the world stage. That's why adding the iShares S&P 500 ETF — which tracks Wall Street's S&P 500 index — could be worth adding as well.
With this ASX ETF, you'll be investing in some of the world's most dominant companies, including Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL), Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT), Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA), and Walmart (NYSE: WMT). Many of these businesses have shaped the modern economy and continue to drive innovation across the globe.
For beginners, the iShares S&P 500 ETF adds critical geographic diversification and gives you access to the dynamic US market, which has consistently delivered strong returns over many decades.
VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat ETF (ASX: MOAT)
Finally, this one is a little different. The VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat ETF is based on the investing philosophy popularised by Warren Buffett.
It looks for fairly valued US based stocks have wide economic moats — durable competitive advantages that protect profits and market share over time. Think pricing power, brand strength, network effects, or high switching costs.
Given Buffett's strong investment performance over multiple decades, it is never a bad idea to follow in his footsteps.
