3 ASX ETFs for a $500 investment

These funds offer investors access to companies both locally and across the globe.

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Got $500 to invest and wondering where to put it? If you're just starting out or looking to grow your portfolio with minimal fuss, exchange-traded funds (ETFs) are a great way to get instant diversification, global exposure, and access to long-term growth.

With the ASX home to an ever-growing range of ASX ETFs, it can be hard to decide which ones to buy.

So, to narrow things down, here are three strong options to consider for your next $500 investment. They are as follows:

Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ)

If you're looking to invest in global tech leaders, the Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF is a great option. It tracks the Nasdaq 100 Index, which includes companies like Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL), Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT), and Tesla (NASDAQ: TSLA).

This fund gives you access to some of the fastest-growing businesses in the world, with a strong focus on innovation and long-term growth potential.

Though, as it leans toward higher growth areas, this can mean higher volatility in the short term. But for investors with a long time horizon, this exposure to cutting-edge technology could pay off handsomely.

Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS)

Another ASX ETF to look at is the Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF. It is a low-cost, no-fuss way to own a slice of Australia's biggest companies.

This fund tracks the S&P/ASX 300 Index, giving you exposure to household names like BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP), Commonwealth of Australia Bank (ASX: CBA), Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL), and CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL).

It could be a good pick for beginners because it is simple to understand and offers a broad mix of 300 of Australia's largest and most reliable businesses. The latter means that it spreads your investment across sectors like financials, resources, healthcare, and consumer staples, giving you a strong foundation for a portfolio.

BetaShares Diversified High Growth ETF (ASX: DHHF)

Finally, the BetaShares Diversified High Growth ETF could be worth considering for that $500.

This ASX ETF provides investors with exposure to a mix of global equities across developed and emerging markets, offering a diversified approach with a strong focus on capital growth. In total, it gives access to approximately 8,000 shares listed on over 60 global exchanges, in one single ASX trade.

It is designed for investors who want a simple, hands-off way to build long-term wealth. The team at Betashares recently named it as one to consider buying.

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF and CSL. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Apple, BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF, CSL, Microsoft, and Tesla. 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 and Coles Group. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Apple, BHP Group, CSL, and Microsoft. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

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