Where I would invest $5,000 in ASX ETFs in January

These funds are highly rated. Here's what they offer Aussie investors.

Businessman working and using Digital Tablet new business project finance investment at coffee cafe.

Image source: Getty Images

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

If you have $5,000 to invest in exchange traded funds (ETFs) this month, then it could be worth checking out the five in this article.

Here's why I think they could be top picks for Aussie investors in January:

Vanguard MSCI International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS)

I would start with the Vanguard MSCI International Shares ETF.

This ASX ETF gives investors exposure to over a thousand companies across developed markets.

But its real value is what it removes. It removes reliance on the Australian economy, local interest rate cycles, and domestic sector concentration. Over long periods, global diversification tends to smooth outcomes.

The Vanguard MSCI International Shares ETF is the ETF I would be happiest owning without checking regularly. It quietly captures global economic growth as it unfolds.

Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ)

The Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF is another ASX ETF I would buy with the $5,000.

This ETF concentrates on US tech stock that reinvest heavily, move fast, and shape how people work, communicate, and spend.

Holding the Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF alongside the Vanguard MSCI International Shares creates an interesting contrast. One is broad and balanced. The other is focused on technological progress.

VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat AUD ETF (ASX: MOAT)

Another ASX ETF to consider buying is the popular VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat ETF.

Instead of guessing which sector will perform best, this ASX ETF looks for businesses that are difficult to disrupt. Strong brands, high switching costs, and entrenched positions are the common thread. These companies often look boring until you realise how consistently they generate cash.

The VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat ETF is the ETF I would rely on when markets become volatile. It is designed to reward investors willing to make patient long-term investments.

Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF (ASX: ASIA)

The Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF could be a great option for investors this month.

Many of the world's most engaged digital consumers live in Asia, and this ETF targets the platforms they use every day. Payments, gaming, social commerce, and online services dominate the portfolio.

The Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF adds a layer of growth that does not depend on US leadership alone. It can be volatile at times, but it reflects where future economic growth is likely to come from.

Betashares Crypto Innovators ETF (ASX: CRYP)

Finally, the Betashares Crypto Innovators ETF is one worth considering if you have a high tolerance for risk and believe that cryptocurrencies are here to stay.

Rather than betting directly on digital assets, it focuses on the businesses building the infrastructure around them. Exchanges, miners, and service providers rise and fall with adoption trends, regulation, and sentiment.

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF, Betashares Capital - Asia Technology Tigers Etf, and VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat ETF. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat ETF and Vanguard Msci Index International Shares ETF. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

More on ETFs

asx passive etf investor relaxing with feet up on desk
ETFs

Want passive income? This simple ETF strategy makes it easier than most people think

You don’t need perfect timing or stock picks to start building passive income.

Read more »

A young woman with her mouth open and her hands out showing surprise and delight as uranium share prices skyrocket
ETFs

3 ASX ETFs that returned 32% to 64% in 2025

These ASX exchange-traded funds delivered outstanding returns for investors last year.

Read more »

Two people work with a digital map of the world, planning their logistics on a global scale.
ETFs

Own IOO ETF? Here's what happened with your investment in 2025

IOO ETF provides Aussies with an easy way of investing in large-cap stocks all over the world.

Read more »

Woman laying with $100 notes around her, symbolising dividends.
ETFs

2 spectacular monthly income ETFs with yields up to 6%

Monthly income ETFs can help smooth cash flow and reduce reliance on selling assets.

Read more »

Zig zaggy green arrow with an American note in the background.
Index investing

Investing in the iShares S&P 500 ETF (IVV)? Here's what you're really buying

The iShares S&P 500 ETF is huge in scale.

Read more »

A blue globe outlined against a black background.
ETFs

VGS ETF outperformed ASX IVV in 2025. Here's why

The VGS ETF delivered a total return of 13.34% while the ASX IVV delivered 10.13%.

Read more »

Man in green face paint and yellow wig/hat cheers in front of an Australian flag.
ETFs

Own VAS ETF? Here's how your investment performed in 2025

Investors in Australia's largest ASX ETF enjoyed a double-digit total return last year.

Read more »

An Army soldier in combat uniform takes a phone call in the field.
ETFs

Which ASX defence ETF performed best in 2025?

Three ASX ETFs capturing the theme of rising global defence spending were launched in late 2024. Here's how they performed…

Read more »