If you've got $2,500 to invest and want a simple, diversified way to build long-term wealth, exchange-traded funds (ETFs) remain one of the smartest tools in the shed.
With just a few quality funds, you can spread your money across sectors, countries, and investment themes — all in a matter of minutes.
But which funds could be top picks for investors now? Here are five ASX ETFs that cover a mix of growth, income, and resilience to consider today.
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Betashares Global Defence ETF (ASX: ARMR)
In an increasingly uncertain geopolitical environment, defence is one sector with clear long-term tailwinds. The Betashares Global Defence ETF provides exposure to a portfolio of global companies involved in defence technology, aerospace, cybersecurity, and intelligence systems.
The fund holds names like Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT), Raytheon Technologies (NYSE: RTX) and Northrop Grumman (NYSE: NOC). These are companies that are positioned to benefit from rising government defence budgets and a growing need for modern security infrastructure.
For investors seeking stability and a strong thematic, the Betashares Global Defence ETF could be a timely addition. It was recently named as one to buy by the fund manager.
iShares Global Consumer Staples ETF (ASX: IXI)
The iShares Global Consumer Staples ETF gives investors exposure to some of the world's most reliable and recognisable consumer brands. These are companies that tend to perform well regardless of economic cycles due to the essential nature of the goods and services they provide.
This ASX ETF includes giants like Procter & Gamble (NYSE: PG), Nestle (SWX: NESN), Coca-Cola (NYSE: KO), and Walmart (NYSE: WMT). For anyone looking to balance risk in their portfolio, this fund provides a strong defensive anchor with global reach.
Betashares Global Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF (ASX: RBTZ)
Artificial intelligence and robotics are fast becoming part of the everyday business landscape. The Betashares Global Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF invests in leading global companies driving innovation in this space, from factory automation to machine learning. Its holdings include names like Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA) and Intuitive Surgical (NASDAQ: ISRG).
With AI adoption ramping up across industries, this fund gives investors a front-row seat to this high-growth megatrend. It was also recently named as one to consider by Betashares.
Vanguard Australian Shares High Yield ETF (ASX: VHY)
For investors chasing passive income, the Vanguard Australian Shares High Yield ETF could be one of the best options on the ASX. This fund tracks a portfolio of high-yielding Australian companies with sustainable dividend policies. It could be a great choice for long-term investors looking to supplement their income or reinvest for growth.
Among its holdings are dividend heavyweights like BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP), Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA), and Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS).
Vanguard US Total Market Shares Index ETF (ASX: VTS)
Finally, the Vanguard US Total Market Shares Index ETF offers investors exposure to virtually the entire US share market. From tech titans to small and mid-sized companies flying under the radar.
This includes household names like Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL) and Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT), as well as companies like Home Depot (NYSE: HD) and Costco (NASDAQ: COST). It could be a great way to access to the world's most dynamic economy, and a great way to diversify beyond Australia.
