For investors looking to build a long-term, low-maintenance portfolio, the idea of narrowing your focus to just a handful of high-quality exchange-traded funds (ETFs) has plenty of merit.
After all, not everyone wants to spend their time stock-picking or keeping up with the latest market news.
Fortunately, the ASX is home to some outstanding ETFs that offer diversified, global exposure — the kind that could serve as core holdings in just about any investor's portfolio.
Here are three standout options that could be all you ever need.
Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ)
For growth investors, it is hard to look past the Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF. This ASX ETF tracks the Nasdaq-100 Index — a collection of 100 of the largest non-financial companies listed on the Nasdaq.
This means that you're getting exposure to some of the most innovative and dominant businesses on the planet. Think Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL), Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT), Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA), and Amazon (NASDAQ: AMZN) — names that have consistently delivered strong revenue and earnings growth.
The Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF has been a standout performer over the last decade, and while volatility can't be ruled out, investors with a long-term view may be well rewarded as these technology giants continue to shape the future of the global economy.
Betashares Global Quality Leaders ETF (ASX: QLTY)
If you're looking for a little more stability, the Betashares Global Quality Leaders ETF is worth a close look.
This ASX ETF is focused on quality — specifically companies with strong balance sheets, high return on equity, and stable earnings. It's a strategy that seeks out businesses with durable competitive advantages and sound financials, which can provide an important buffer during market downturns.
The Betashares Global Quality Leaders ETF includes global blue chips such as Johnson & Johnson (NYSE: JNJ), Visa (NYSE: V), and Nestle. These are companies that generate reliable cash flows and often dominate their respective industries.
With its diversified sector and geographic mix, this fund could be a strong candidate for investors wanting a smoother ride over the long run. It was recently tipped as one to consider buying by the team at Betashares.
VanEck Morningstar International Wide Moat ETF (ASX: GOAT)
Rounding out the trio is the VanEck Morningstar International Wide Moat ETF.
This ASX ETF is designed to track global companies that possess wide economic moats. These are businesses with sustainable competitive advantages — think strong brands, high switching costs, or exclusive access to key resources — that allow them to fend off competition and generate above-average profits over time.
Some of its top holdings include Estee Lauder (NYSE: EL), Anheuser-Busch InBev, and Nike (NYSE: NKE). With a focus on valuation as well as competitive positioning, this ASX ETF aims to deliver both quality and value in a single package.
If you're keen to tap into long-term compounders beyond just the U.S. market, this fund adds some welcome global flavour to a concentrated ETF portfolio. It was recently named as one to consider buying by the team at VanEck.
