5 top ASX ETFs to buy in October

Let's see what makes these funds top picks for investors right now.

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Key points

  • Growth investors might consider a Nasdaq-focused ETF for exposure to leading tech giants driving sectors like AI and cloud computing.
  • For those interested in emerging tech markets, an Asia-focused ETF offers potential with companies at the forefront of semiconductors and ecommerce.
  • Additional options include a "wide moat" strategy ETF for companies with competitive advantages, a cybersecurity-focused ETF aligned with rising demand, and a highly diversified international shares ETF for broad global exposure.

A new month is almost here, so now could be a good time to make some investments into your ASX share portfolio.

But if you're not sure which shares to buy, don't worry!

That's because there are plenty of exchange-traded funds (ETFs) out there for investors to choose from.

They give you instant diversification, exposure to global themes, and an easier way to build a long-term portfolio without trying to pick winners and losers.

With that in mind, here are five top ASX ETFs worth considering in October:

Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ)

For growth-focused investors, the Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF is often the first stop they will make. And it isn't hard to see why. This ASX ETF tracks the Nasdaq 100 index, home to tech giants such as Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL), Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT), Amazon.com (NASDAQ: AMZN), and Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA). These are the stocks leading the charge in areas like artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and digital advertising. While the ride can be volatile, the long-term returns from the Nasdaq have been outstanding.

Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF (ASX: ASIA)

The Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF is another top option to consider in October. It provides exposure to the next generation of technology leaders across Asia. Think of names like Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (NYSE: TSM), Samsung Electronics, and Alibaba (NYSE: BABA). These are companies at the forefront of semiconductors, ecommerce, and cloud infrastructure. With Asia's middle class expanding rapidly, demand for digital services is only expected to grow, giving this ASX ETF significant long-term potential.

VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat ETF (ASX: MOAT)

The VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat ETF takes a different approach to the others. It invests in US companies that have durable competitive advantages and fair valuations. Its holdings change periodically but currently include Nike (NYSE: NKE), Walt Disney (NYSE: DIS), and PepsiCo (NASDAQ: PEP). The fund has a track record of outperforming broader US markets over time, making it a compelling buy-and-hold option.

Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF (ASX: HACK)

Cybersecurity is quickly becoming a necessity for businesses. That makes the Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF one of the most relevant ASX ETFs for the next decade. Its portfolio includes global leaders like CrowdStrike Holdings Inc (NASDAQ: CRWD), Palo Alto Networks Inc (NASDAQ: PANW), and Cisco Systems Inc (NASDAQ: CSCO). As threats escalate and spending on cybersecurity grows, this ETF could benefit from structural demand that doesn't depend on the economic cycle.

Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS)

For investors looking for core global exposure, the Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF could be a standout pick in October. It provides access to more than 1,200 international stocks across the US, Europe, and Asia. Holdings include names such as Nestle (SWX: NESN), Toyota Motor Corp (TYO: 7203), and Roche Holding AG (SWX: ROG). With broad diversification and Vanguard's low-cost structure, this fund is a simple yet powerful way to capture long-term market growth.

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF, Betashares Capital - Asia Technology Tigers Etf, Nike, VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat ETF, and Walt Disney. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Amazon, Apple, BetaShares Global Cybersecurity ETF, BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF, Cisco Systems, CrowdStrike, Microsoft, Nike, Nvidia, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing, and Walt Disney. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has recommended Alibaba Group, Nestlé, Palo Alto Networks, and Roche Holding AG and has recommended the following options: long January 2026 $395 calls on Microsoft and short January 2026 $405 calls on Microsoft. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Amazon, Apple, CrowdStrike, Microsoft, Nike, Nvidia, VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat ETF, Vanguard Msci Index International Shares ETF, and Walt Disney. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

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