Almost all of us have a superannuation fund. But many of us aren't too familiar with what that super fund is actually investing our hard-earned money in.
Most Australians tend to opt for a simple 'balanced' fund from one of the many providers out there. But there are others who instead choose to directly pick and manage the investments, or even run their own self-managed super funds (SMSF). For these investors, there are numerous exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that may suit their needs.
ETFs are a great way to easily add diversification and stability to a super fund. So let's talk about the two top ASX ETFs that I think would be suitable for most superannuation funds today.
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Two ASX ETFs to consider for your superannuation fund in 2026
Vanguard All-World ex-US Shares Index ETF (ASX: VEU)
Most Australian superannuation funds, whether they be pre-mix portfolios, SMSFs, or others, are heavily exposed to both the Australian and American stock markets. That makes sense. The Australian markets offer familiarity, domestic investment, and exposure to a market that has historically delivered wealth-building returns. Franking credits are an added bonus.
Meanwhile, the USA is home to many of the best businesses in the world, whether that be Apple, Mastercard, Costco, or Nvidia.
But some investors may wish to diversify their superannuation portfolios away from these two markets. The Vanguard All-World ex-US Shares Index ETF is an easy solution. This Vanguard ETF tracks dozens of stock markets around the world, excluding the American markets. It draws its holdings from countries as diverse as India, Taiwan, the United Kingdom, Japan, Brazil, and Thailand. Some of its largest positions include Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co, Shell plc, Toyota, and Nestle.
This ASX ETF would suit any investor who would like to see their superannuation investments spread out amongst a truly global portfolio of stocks.
iShares Global Consumer Staples ETF (ASX: IXI)
Given that our superannuation funds represent our ticket to a comfortable retirement, investors usually want to see their capital deployed in safe, reliable businesses that can survive and thrive in all kinds of economic climates. That's where this ASX ETF can come in handy.
The iShares Global Consumer Staples ETF invests in a basket of the world's best consumer staples stocks. These stocks produce goods that we tend to need to buy continuously. They include food, drinks, household essentials, alcohol, and tobacco.
These companies make for wonderful defensive investments, as the requirement to keep our households well-stocked doesn't abate during recessions or periods of high inflation. Some of IXI's largest companies include Coca-Cola Co, Walmart, Kraft Heinz, Procter & Gamble, and Colgate-Palmolive.
If you're looking for a defensive ETF for your superannuation fund that puts your money in some of the world's most resilient businesses, this fund is well worth a closer look.
