If I had $5,000 ready to invest right now, I would split it across a small group of ASX 200 shares that offer different growth drivers and time horizons.
For me, that mix would include the three shares in this article. Each brings something different to the table, and together they offer exposure to travel, healthcare technology, and global building materials.
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Qantas Airways Ltd (ASX: QAN)
Qantas has transformed over the past few years. It is no longer just a cyclical airline trying to survive the next downturn. I believe it is now a leaner, more disciplined operator with multiple earnings engines.
Jetstar continues to be a key growth driver, both domestically and internationally. The group's capacity discipline and focus on higher-yield routes have supported profitability, while a newer fleet should improve fuel efficiency and lower operating costs over time.
I also like the optionality from Project Sunrise, which has the potential to enhance productivity on long-haul routes. Combined with the strength of its loyalty business, Qantas looks more diversified than many people give it credit for.
With the airline now generating solid cash flow and returning capital to shareholders, I see Qantas shares as a compelling medium-term and long-term play.
Pro Medicus Ltd (ASX: PME)
Pro Medicus is one of the highest-quality growth stories on the ASX, in my view.
The company's Visage imaging platform continues to win large, multi-year contracts with leading hospitals and healthcare networks. What stands out to me is the sticky nature of these contracts. Once embedded, switching costs are high and revenue visibility improves dramatically.
Pro Medicus operates in a global medical imaging market that is still digitising and upgrading. Its technology is known for speed and scalability, which has helped it win business against much larger competitors.
Yes, the valuation is rarely cheap. But I believe this is one of those businesses where quality, execution, and long-term market opportunity justify paying a premium.
If I am investing with a 5 to 10 year horizon, I want exposure to ASX 200 shares like this.
James Hardie Industries plc (ASX: JHX)
James Hardie gives me exposure to the US housing and renovation cycle, but in a way that feels structurally advantaged.
The company is a leader in fibre cement building products, particularly in North America. Over time, it has steadily gained share as homeowners and builders shift away from traditional materials.
While housing activity can be cyclical, I believe James Hardie benefits from long-term trends such as repair and remodel demand, population growth, and the push for more durable, lower-maintenance materials.
Importantly, the business has demonstrated pricing power and a strong focus on margins. For me, that combination of market leadership and structural growth makes it more than just a housing bet.
Foolish takeaway
If I were deploying $5,000 today, I would be comfortable spreading it across Qantas, Pro Medicus, and James Hardie.
Qantas offers a revitalised airline with multiple earnings streams. Pro Medicus provides high-margin, global healthcare technology growth. James Hardie delivers exposure to US housing with structural advantages.
Together, I believe they offer a balanced blend of quality and growth that I would be happy to hold for years.
