With 2026 now here, many investors are likely to be looking for simple, low-maintenance ways to build long-term wealth without constantly reacting to market headlines.
Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) remain one of the most effective tools for doing exactly that, offering instant diversification and exposure to powerful global themes.
Here are ten ASX ETFs that could form the backbone of a well-balanced portfolio in 2026 and beyond.
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Vanguard Australian Shares ETF (ASX: VAS)
The popular Vanguard Australian Shares ETF provides broad exposure to the Australian share market, including banks, miners, and consumer staples. It is often used as a core holding for investors wanting reliable dividends and domestic exposure.
iShares S&P 500 ETF (ASX: IVV)
Another popular ASX ETF to consider buying is the iShares S&P 500 ETF. It gives investors access to the 500 largest stocks in the United States. It is a simple way to benefit from the long-term growth of the world's most dominant economy.
Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ)
If you want to invest in the best, then it is hard to ignore the Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF. This ASX ETF focuses on leading global innovators, particularly in technology. It offers exposure to the companies driving artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and digital transformation. This includes Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA), Tesla (NASDAQ: TSLA), and Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT).
Betashares Global Quality Leaders ETF (ASX: QLTY)
The Betashares Global Quality Leaders ETF is another ASX ETF to look at. It targets high-quality global businesses with strong balance sheets, consistent earnings, and durable competitive advantages. It suits investors who prefer quality over speculation. It was recently recommended by analysts at Betashares.
Betashares Australian Quality ETF (ASX: AQLT)
The Betashares Australian Quality ETF applies the same quality lens to Australian shares, focusing on profitable companies with sustainable returns. It could complement broader market exposure while potentially reducing volatility. It was also recently recommended by Betashares.
VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat ETF (ASX: MOAT)
Another ASX ETF to look at is the VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat ETF. It invests in US companies with durable competitive advantages or economic moats. The strategy is inspired by long-term value investing principles and aims to outperform over full market cycles.
Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF (ASX: ASIA)
The Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF could be a top pick. It provides access to major technology companies across Asia, including leaders in semiconductors, e-commerce, and digital services. It adds geographic diversification and higher growth potential. This is another fund that Betashares recently recommended.
Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF (ASX: HACK)
Cybersecurity is becoming increasingly critical as economies digitise. The Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF offers exposure to global companies helping protect data, networks, and infrastructure. This is an industry with decades of growth ahead of it.
Betashares Global Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF (ASX: RBTZ)
An ASX ETF that could be suitable for growth investors is the Betashares Global Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF. It focuses on shares developing robotics and AI technologies that could reshape manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics over the next decade. Betashares recently recommended this fund.
Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS)
Finally, the Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF could be worth considering. It provides broad exposure to developed markets outside Australia. It is often used as a core global allocation alongside Australian shares.
