Markets have been a bit unsettled lately. But that can create opportunities to step back and think about where to allocate fresh capital, especially when prices have pulled back across different parts of the market.
Here are three Vanguard exchange-traded funds (ETFs) I think are worth a closer look as we head into April.
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Vanguard Diversified High Growth Index ETF (ASX: VDHG)
The Vanguard Diversified High Growth Index ETF is the kind of fund I think of as a set and forget option.
It bundles together multiple asset classes, including Australian shares, global equities, and fixed income, into a single investment.
What stands out to me is how it simplifies decision-making. Instead of choosing between regions or sectors, you're getting a pre-built portfolio that automatically rebalances over time.
In periods where markets are volatile, that structure can be useful. You're not trying to pick the exact winner. You're staying invested across everything.
Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS)
The Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF offers investors something more familiar.
It gives broad exposure to the Australian market, including banks like Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA), miners like BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP), and other large domestic businesses like Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES).
This is particularly useful for income investors. The Australian market tends to offer higher dividend yields than many global markets, supported by franking credits. The VAS ETF captures this.
At the same time, it still provides exposure to companies that benefit from economic growth and commodity demand.
Overall, I think it's a simple way to anchor a portfolio in the local market while collecting income along the way.
Vanguard FTSE All-World ex-US Shares Index ETF (ASX: VEU)
The Vanguard FTSE All-World ex-US Shares Index ETF fills a gap that many portfolios overlook.
A lot of global investing ends up heavily concentrated in the United States. The VEU ETF deliberately excludes the US and instead provides exposure to Europe, Asia, and emerging markets.
That changes the mix. You're getting access to different economic cycles, currencies, and industries that don't always move in sync with the US.
In a world where diversification matters, I think that's an interesting angle to add.
Foolish takeaway
The VDHG, VAS, and VEU ETFs each serve a different purpose.
One simplifies everything into a single portfolio, one anchors you to the Australian market and its income, and one expands your reach beyond the US.
Together, I think they can complement each other and help build a more balanced portfolio.
