3 strong Vanguard ETFs to buy with $3,000

One offers broad global exposure, another focuses on the US, and the third gives investors a way into Asia.

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If I had $3,000 to invest for long-term wealth creation, Vanguard would be one of the first exchange-traded fund (ETF) providers I would look at.

Its range includes funds covering some of the world's biggest companies and fastest-growing economies.

Here are three Vanguard ETFs I think could be strong buys now.

ETF written in light blue on a chart.

Image source: Getty Images

Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS)

The VGS ETF would be one of my favourite choices for long-term global exposure.

It invests across developed markets outside Australia, giving investors access to over 1,000 stocks from approximately 22 countries.

I like the opportunities sitting inside this fund. Its holdings span technology, healthcare, financial services, industrial businesses, consumer companies, and many other industries that are not represented as strongly on the ASX.

The United States makes up the majority of the portfolio, which means the fund has substantial exposure to many of the businesses driving growth in artificial intelligence, cloud computing, digital advertising, e-commerce, and other major global trends.

Vanguard charges a management fee of 0.18% per year. I think keeping costs relatively low is particularly valuable when the intention is to leave an investment compounding for many years.

For $3,000, the VGS ETF could provide exposure to a large number of global businesses through one ASX investment.

Vanguard S&P 500 US Shares Index ETF (ASX: V500)

The V500 ETF is a newer addition to Vanguard's Australian range and tracks the S&P 500 Index (SP: .INX).

That gives investors exposure to around 500 of America's largest listed companies, representing approximately 80% of the US share market by value.

I think the US remains a compelling place to invest for long-term growth. It is home to world-leading businesses across technology, healthcare, financial services, consumer products, industrials, and many other industries.

The S&P 500 also changes with the US corporate landscape. Successful businesses can become increasingly important to the index over time, while companies that fall behind can eventually be replaced.

Another reason V500 catches my eye is its management fee of just 0.07% per year.

That gives investors a very low-cost way to put $3,000 behind the long-term growth of corporate America.

Vanguard FTSE Asia ex-Japan Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAE)

A third Vanguard ETF that catches my eye is the VAE ETF.

It invests across Asian markets excluding Japan, Australia, and New Zealand. Its exposure includes major economies such as China, India, Taiwan, and South Korea.

I think there is plenty to like about the long-term opportunity across this region.

Asia is home to major semiconductor manufacturers, technology platforms, banks, consumer businesses, and industrial companies. Rising incomes and continued digital adoption could also create opportunities for businesses serving increasingly wealthy populations.

The fund comes with a management fee of 0.40% per year, which is higher than the others.

Even so, I think the VAE ETF could be worth considering for investors seeking direct access to some of Asia's most important companies and economies via the ASX.

Foolish Takeaway

I think the VGS, V500, and VAE ETFs could each be strong Vanguard ETFs to consider with $3,000.

I would be happy to buy any of them, or more than one, with the intention of holding them for many years.

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 no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended 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.

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