Is this one of the best Vanguard ETFs to buy now?

Instead of trying to pick one tech winner, this fund gives investors access to a basket of global leaders across AI, chips, software, and cloud.

| More on:

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

Vanguard offers a number of exchange-traded funds (ETFs) on the ASX, and many of them are built around broad diversification.

But some investors may want something more targeted.

That is where the Vanguard Global Technology Index ETF (ASX: VTEK) could be worth a closer look.

This ETF gives investors exposure to some of the world's most important technology companies. For anyone who believes technology will continue reshaping the global economy over the next decade, I think the VTEK ETF is one of the more interesting Vanguard ETFs on the ASX.

A panel of four judges hold up cards all showing the perfect score of ten out of ten

Image source: Getty Images

What does this Vanguard ETF own?

Its largest holdings include NVIDIA, Apple, Microsoft, Alphabet, Broadcom, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co, Meta Platforms, ASML, and Tencent Holdings.

That is a powerful group of companies.

These businesses are exposed to some of the biggest long-term themes in the world, including artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductors, cloud computing, digital advertising, consumer technology, software, social media, and advanced manufacturing.

This essentially means the fund provides exposure to the companies building the tools, platforms, and infrastructure behind the modern digital economy.

Why I like this ETF

Technology is no longer a narrow part of the market.

It sits underneath almost everything. Businesses use cloud software to operate. Consumers use smartphones and apps every day. AI models need chips, data centres, and software. Digital advertising funds much of the internet. Semiconductor manufacturing supports everything from electric vehicles to defence systems.

This Vanguard ETF gives investors a simple way to access these trends without needing to choose a single winner.

That is important because technology investing can be difficult. Even great companies can have periods of weak performance. Valuations can rise too far. Competition can change quickly. Regulation can also become a bigger issue when companies become very large and powerful.

By owning a basket of global technology shares, investors can reduce the risk of relying too heavily on one company.

The AI angle

Artificial intelligence is probably the biggest reason many investors are looking at global technology ETFs right now.

The VTEK ETF has heavy exposure to companies that could benefit from AI adoption.

NVIDIA is central to AI chip demand. Microsoft is building AI into its software and cloud platform. Alphabet has deep AI expertise and a huge digital ecosystem. Broadcom and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing are exposed to semiconductor infrastructure. Meta is using AI across advertising, content, and product development.

I think that makes this Vanguard ETF a useful option for investors who want AI exposure but do not want to bet everything on one stock.

Of course, AI enthusiasm can also create valuation risk. If expectations become too high, even strong businesses can disappoint investors in the short term.

That is why I would only buy this fund with a long-term mindset.

The risks

The VTEK ETF is not a defensive ETF.

Its holdings are concentrated in technology, and the top positions make up a large part of the portfolio. That can be positive when tech shares are rising, but it can work against investors when the sector sells off.

Higher interest rates, slower earnings growth, regulation, or a pullback in AI spending could all weigh on returns.

So, I would not use this fund as my entire portfolio. I think it works better as a growth-focused satellite holding alongside broader ETFs or other investments.

Foolish takeaway

I think the VTEK ETF could be one of the best Vanguard ETFs for investors wanting targeted exposure to global technology.

It owns many of the companies shaping the future of AI, software, semiconductors, cloud computing, and digital platforms.

There are risks, especially after strong runs from many large technology shares. But for long-term investors who can handle volatility, I think the Vanguard Global Technology Index ETF could be a smart way to invest in the next decade of innovation.

Motley Fool contributor Grace Alvino has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Alphabet, Apple, Broadcom, Meta Platforms, Microsoft, Nvidia, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing, and Tencent. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Alphabet, Apple, Meta Platforms, Microsoft, and Nvidia. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

More on ETFs

Group of young people stacking hands together in an outdoor setting. A community of multiracial international people supporting each other.
ETFs

5 ASX ETFs for beginners with $500

These funds could be worth getting acquainted with if you are new to the share market.

Read more »

A boy stands firm on a rocky cliff holding a rocket in each hand and looking up toward the sky, anticipating flying into space.
ETFs

SpaceX IPO: Should you buy an ASX space ETF to cash in?

The countdown is on.

Read more »

Man on a tablet in a room with data centre technology.
ETFs

2 ASX ETFs positioned for the booming AI data centre buildout

Here's a lower-risk way to own the foundations of the AI buildout.

Read more »

A picture of a satellite orbiting the earth.
ETFs

Are space ASX ETFs the next big growth opportunity or overhyped?

Should investors be buying the hype?

Read more »

Excited woman holding out $100 notes, symbolising dividends.
ETFs

Is this the best Vanguard ETF money can buy?

There are many Vanguard ETFs on the ASX, but one simple fund stands out to me for long-term growth.

Read more »

Smiling man points to graph comparing different companies.
ETFs

3 ASX ETFs for investors who want global winners

Want to invest in the best? These funds could be worth considering.

Read more »

Portrait of a boy with the map of the world painted on his face.
ETFs

3 ASX ETFs I'd buy if I wanted easy global investing

These ETFs offer exposure to the US share market, attractively priced wide moat companies, and Asian growth markets.

Read more »

A man in a full astronaut suit sits forlornly on a set of concrete steps with a sorrowful look on his face beneath his rounded space helmet.
ETFs

Global X announces new space-focused ASX ETF

A new space-themed ETF is set to launch.

Read more »