For many Australians, a $1 million retirement nest egg is the magic number. It is big enough to provide comfort, flexibility, and peace of mind, while still being achievable with discipline and time in the market.
So, how could you get there using ASX shares (and ETFs)? Let's break it down.
Start with a clear savings plan
Building a $1 million portfolio doesn't happen overnight. The first step is to commit to a regular investing plan. For example, putting aside $1,000 a month and earning an average annual return of 10% (not guaranteed but consistent with long-term market averages) could grow into about $1 million in just under 23 years.
Consistency is more important than timing. By investing through the ups and downs, you let compounding do the heavy lifting.
Focus on quality ASX shares
Quality matters when your goal is measured in decades. ASX shares that have strong balance sheets, competitive advantages, and global growth potential can keep compounding earnings over the long haul.
Shares like CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL) in biotechnology, WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC) in logistics software, and Xero Ltd (ASX: XRO) in accounting software all offer exposure to global megatrends while maintaining leadership positions in their fields. These are the kinds of businesses that can help build serious wealth.
Add ETFs for diversification
To balance individual share risk, ETFs can provide broad exposure in a single trade. For example, the iShares S&P 500 ETF (ASX: IVV) gives you access to the 500 largest U.S. stocks, including names like Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL) and Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT).
Closer to home, the Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS) covers the top 300 ASX shares, offering instant diversification across banks, miners, retailers, and industrial leaders. Combining shares and ETFs ensures you're not overly reliant on just a handful of businesses.
Retirement
Once you've reached the $1 million milestone and retirement, the focus shifts from growing your portfolio to living off it. With an average dividend yield of around 5% from a well-constructed portfolio of ASX dividend shares and income-focused ETFs, you could generate $50,000 a year in passive income without eating into your capital base.
That income, combined with potential Age Pension entitlements or other assets, could support a comfortable retirement.
Foolish takeaway
Retiring on $1 million with ASX shares is possible, but it requires patience, consistency, and a focus on quality investments. Build steadily with growth shares and diversified ETFs, reinvest dividends along the way, and then shift to income when you are ready to retire.
