Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) are one of the simplest ways to invest, offering diversification, transparency, and exposure to powerful global trends.
For Australians, a handful of ASX ETFs stand out as strong buy-and-hold options, particularly for those seeking long-term growth.
With that in mind, here are three ETFs that could be compelling additions to a portfolio right now.
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Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ)
The Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF gives investors exposure to 100 of the largest non-financial stocks on the famous Nasdaq exchange.
That means instant ownership of giants like Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL), Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT), and Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA), as well as other leaders in biotech, e-commerce, and entertainment.
What makes the Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF attractive is its positioning in some of the most innovative sectors of the global economy, including artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and digital media. While U.S. tech stocks can be volatile, their long-term record of wealth creation arguably makes this ASX ETF a compelling growth play for Aussie investors.
Betashares India Quality ETF (ASX: IIND)
The Betashares India Quality ETF provides investors with easy access to one of the fastest-growing major economies in the world. It invests in 30 of India's highest-quality stocks, selected for strong profitability, low leverage, and earnings stability.
Its holdings include Infosys Ltd (NYSE: INFY), a global leader in IT services, Bharti Airtel (NSE: BHARTIARTL), a major telecom operator, and Hindustan Unilever (NSE: HINDUNILVR), a consumer goods powerhouse.
With India's expanding middle class and increasing digitalisation, these stocks and this ASX ETF are well placed to benefit from structural growth drivers that could play out over decades. It was recently recommended as one to consider buying by Betashares.
VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat ETF (ASX: MOAT)
Finally, the VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat ETF is built on Warren Buffett's philosophy of investing in companies with fair valuations and strong competitive moats — advantages that protect their profits and market share.
Its portfolio currently includes names like Adobe (NASDAQ: ADBE), a global software giant, Danaher Corporation (NYSE: DHR), a leader in life sciences and diagnostics, and Applied Materials Inc (NASDAQ: AMAT), a key player in the semiconductor industry. These stocks operate in industries with high barriers to entry and have the brand strength or technology edge to fend off competitors.
In light of this, the VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat ETF appears well-placed to continue delivering strong returns for investors over the next decade, which makes this ASX ETF an attractive option in the current market.
