When I think about a genuine buy-and-hold-forever portfolio, I want simplicity, diversification, and exposure to long-term global growth. I am not trying to chase themes or time markets. I want exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that I can own through different cycles without constantly second-guessing the decision.
If I had to narrow it down to just two ASX ETFs for 2026 and beyond, these would be my choices.
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iShares S&P 500 ETF (ASX: IVV)
The iShares S&P 500 ETF would be the cornerstone.
It provides access to 500 of the largest stocks in the United States. These businesses dominate global industries ranging from technology and healthcare to consumer goods and financial services. Many generate significant earnings outside the US, which adds an extra layer of diversification.
What I like about the iShares S&P 500 ETF is its ability to evolve over time. The index naturally removes stocks that fall behind and replaces them with those that become more relevant. That built-in renewal is a powerful advantage for long-term investors.
If I am holding something forever, I want exposure to innovation, productivity, and the world's most competitive businesses. The iShares S&P 500 ETF delivers that in a simple, low-cost way.
Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS)
While the iShares S&P 500 ETF offers deep exposure to the US market, I do not want my entire portfolio tied to one country. That is where the Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF comes in.
This ETF provides broad exposure to developed markets outside Australia, including the United States, Europe, Japan, and other major economies. It holds over a thousand stocks across sectors and regions, giving investors a truly global footprint.
I like the Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF because it reduces reliance on any single market or sector. It also complements the iShares S&P 500 ETF well, adding diversification across currencies, geographies, and economic drivers.
For investors who want a simple way to own global equities without constantly adjusting allocations, this ASX ETF delivers it in spades.
Why these two ETFs work together
Held together, these ETFs offer exposure to the US market through the iShares S&P 500 ETF, broad global diversification through the Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF, participation in long-term global economic growth, and a structure that can be held through multiple market cycles.
I am not suggesting these ETFs will outperform every year. But for investors focused on long-term wealth creation rather than short-term trades, I think they form a strong foundation.
If I were building a portfolio in 2026 with a forever mindset, these are two ASX ETFs I would feel comfortable owning for decades.
