A new year is almost here, so what better time to start thinking about some new investments.
For those who prefer a diversified, low-effort approach, exchange-traded funds (ETFs) remain one of the simplest ways to gain exposure to high-quality businesses and powerful global themes.
With that in mind, here are three ASX ETFs that could be excellent additions to a portfolio in January and beyond:
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Betashares Global Quality Leaders ETF (ASX: QLTY)
The Betashares Global Quality Leaders ETF is designed for investors who want exposure to some of the strongest businesses in the world, without having to pick individual stocks. The fund focuses on companies with high returns on equity, strong balance sheets, and consistent earnings growth.
Its holdings include global leaders such as Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT), Visa (NYSE: V), and Johnson & Johnson (NYSE: JNJ). These are businesses with sustainable competitive advantages and pricing power, which helps them perform across different economic cycles. For investors starting the year with a long-term mindset, this ETF offers an effective way to build a portfolio around quality.
It was recently recommended by analysts at Betashares.
VanEck China New Economy ETF (ASX: CNEW)
The VanEck China New Economy ETF provides exposure to a very different opportunity set. It targets companies operating in China's new economy, including technology, healthcare, consumer, and advanced manufacturing businesses.
The fund holds a diversified portfolio of around 120 China stocks that are considered fundamentally sound and attractively valued. This includes businesses involved in pharmaceuticals, software, electric vehicles, and consumer brands serving China's growing middle class.
While China-related investments can be higher risk, this fund could suit investors willing to take a long-term view on the country's economic transformation.
Analysts at VanEck recently recommended this fund to investors.
Betashares Global Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF (ASX: RBTZ)
Finally, the Betashares Global Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF offers targeted exposure to one of the most powerful investment themes of the coming decade.
It is fair to say that automation and AI are reshaping industries ranging from manufacturing and healthcare to logistics and defence.
This fund's holdings include stocks such as Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA), ABB (SWX: ABBN), and Intuitive Surgical (NASDAQ: ISRG). They all sit at the heart of the AI and automation boom.
And while this fund could be more volatile than broader market ETFs, it also offers significant long-term growth potential for investors prepared to ride out short-term swings.
It was also recently recommended by the team at Betashares.
