The Australian share market may be trading near record highs, but long-term investors know the real gains come from staying invested through cycles, not from trying to time them.
Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) make this easier than ever by offering instant diversification and access to some of the world's strongest stocks.
If you're looking to build lasting wealth, these three ASX ETFs could be smart long-term holdings for the decade ahead. Here's what you need to know:
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iShares S&P 500 ETF (ASX: IVV)
The iShares S&P 500 ETF is one of the simplest ways to invest in the world's most powerful economy. It tracks the 500 largest US-listed stocks, giving investors exposure to a wide range of industries. This includes from technology and healthcare to consumer goods and energy.
You will find familiar names like Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL), Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT), and Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA) among its holdings. In addition, there are global leaders beyond the tech sphere. These include Johnson & Johnson (NYSE: JNJ) in healthcare, ExxonMobil (NYSE: XOM) in energy, and Procter & Gamble (NYSE: PG) in consumer goods.
This blend of stocks has produced reliable long-term returns for decades. And it appears well-placed to continue this trend long into the future.
Betashares Australian Quality ETF (ASX: AQLT)
Another ASX ETF that could be a top long-term pick is the Betashares Australian Quality ETF.
It focuses on homegrown excellence. It invests in a concentrated portfolio of Australian stocks with high profitability, low debt, and steady earnings growth. These are characteristics often found in stocks that have historically outperformed the broader market over time.
Current holdings include CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL), Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES), and TechnologyOne Ltd (ASX: TNE). These are three businesses that have delivered years of consistent growth and global expansion.
The Betashares Australian Quality ETF avoids speculative names, favouring companies with competitive advantages and strong management teams. It is no wonder then that Betashares recently recommended it as one to consider buying.
Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF (ASX: HACK)
Cybersecurity has become one of the most important industries in the modern world in recent years. And the Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF allows investors to gain direct exposure to its growth.
Its portfolio includes a mix of leading cybersecurity firms such as Palo Alto Networks (NASDAQ: PANW), CrowdStrike Holdings (NASDAQ: CRWD), and Fortinet (NASDAQ: FTNT), along with established players like Cisco Systems (NASDAQ: CSCO) and Thales (FRA: CF).
As the digital economy expands, so too does the need for protection against cyber threats. As a result, this industry is expected to continue growing strongly for at least the next decade. This bodes well for the holdings in the Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF.
