Investing doesn't have to feel like solving a Rubik's Cube blindfolded. In fact, some of the most successful portfolios are built on one deceptively simple idea: the core and satellite strategy.
It's a framework used by many experienced investors to keep things clear, diversified, and yes—even a little bit fun.
Let's break it down.
What is core and satellite investing?
Think of your portfolio like a planet. The 'core' is the stable centre, typically made up of low-cost, broad-market ETFs that offer instant diversification. The 'satellites' are the exciting moonshots: individual stocks or niche ETFs that can deliver extra returns if they perform well.
This structure is brilliant because it blends stability with upside potential. The core does the heavy lifting over time, while the satellites give you room to express your convictions, without putting your whole portfolio at risk.
Building a strong ASX core
For your core, you're looking for high-quality ETFs that spread your money across hundreds (or even thousands) of companies. A few favourites for Aussie investors include:
- Vanguard MSCI International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS)
Gives you exposure to ~1,500 companies across 23 countries. Great for reducing home bias and tapping into global giants like Microsoft and LVMH. - BetaShares Australia 200 ETF (ASX: A200)
A low-cost way to get broad exposure to the top 200 Aussie companies, including household names across banking, mining, healthcare and more. - iShares S&P 500 ETF (ASX: IVV)
A simple way to gain access to the 500 largest companies in the US, such as Apple, Amazon, and Meta. - Vaneck Morningstar Wide Moat ETF (ASX: MOAT)
Targets US companies with durable competitive advantages. As Warren Buffett has said many times, he loves "moats", so there's a good chance this ETF is onto something.
These ETFs can form a diversified, lower-volatility backbone to your portfolio—letting you sleep easier at night.
Injecting fun and focus with satellites
Once your core is in place, it's time to let your interests and insights guide you. Satellite investments are typically a smaller portion of your portfolio (for example, 5–20%) and can include:
- Individual stocks like Xero Ltd (ASX: XRO), Pro Medicus Ltd (ASX: PME), or Nvidia Corp (NASDAQ: NVDA), companies with the potential to outperform the broader market.
- Thematic ETFs like:
- BetaShares Global Cybersecurity ETF (ASX: HACK)
Riding the wave of rising cyber threats and enterprise security spend. - VanEck Global Defence ETF (ASX: DFND)
Tapping into growing government defence budgets and geopolitical tensions. - Global X FANG+ ETF (ASX: FANG)
A highly concentrated basket of tech leaders like Alphabet and Tesla.
- BetaShares Global Cybersecurity ETF (ASX: HACK)
These satellites can help boost your returns, especially when chosen thoughtfully as long-term plays.
Patience pays
The real magic of this strategy shines over time. By consistently saving and dollar-cost averaging into your core and satellite positions—through good markets and bad—you give compounding the space it needs to work. As author Morgan Housel puts it, "Save like a pessimist, invest like an optimist." Build habits that prepare for uncertainty, but invest with the belief that the future rewards long-term thinkers.
Foolish Takeaway
Investing doesn't need to be stressful. With a core and satellite strategy, you get the best of both worlds: simplicity and structure with room for smart and exciting ideas. Whether you're just starting or looking to tidy up your current portfolio, this timeless framework could be your investing superpower.
