According to Alice Shen, Portfolio Manager, Vaneck, during global geopolitical conflict, countries that rely heavily on imported energy can be particularly exposed. 

This is due to rising oil prices trickling through to inflation and production, and negatively impacting economic growth expectations.

However, China's onshore equity market has shown relative resilience. 

During the recent oil price spike following tensions in the Middle East, the CSI 300 Index, the benchmark for China's A-share market, experienced comparatively modest moves relative to many global equity markets.

She said there are two structural factors that may help explain this resilience.

Energy strategy

According to the report, China has spent years pursuing a more diversified energy strategy. This may be helping cushion the impact of oil market shocks. 

VanEck said strategic oil reserves have been steadily built up since last year. This has helped reduce the immediate sensitivity of the economy to supply disruptions.

While coal remains the dominant source of energy, China has also been increasing its renewable energy capacity for many years.

According to the International Energy Agency, IEA, China accounted for roughly 40% of global renewable capacity expansion between 2019 and 2024. Enhance competitiveness of both solar and onshore wind energy generation, combined with improvements in energy storage and system integration, is gradually broadening the country's energy base.

Diversification and defence potential

VanEck also noted that while China A-shares are not traditionally viewed as a defensive asset class, recent market behaviour has highlighted how domestic policy drivers and structural economic trends can sometimes decouple the market from global macro shocks.

The report also highlighted that at the country's latest Two Sessions meeting, it pointed towards moderate and "quality growth." This is set to be driven by domestic demand, technological self-reliance, and structural transformation rather than aggressive stimulus. 

How to gain exposure with ASX ETFs

For investors optimistic on the long-term prospects of Chinese equities, there are plenty of ASX ETFs to consider. 

Three notable options include: 

• VanEck China New Economy ETF (ASX: CNEW) – Invests in 120 fundamentally sound and attractively valued companies with growth prospects in China's New Economy, targeting technology, healthcare, and consumer staples and consumer discretionary sectors.
• VanEck Ftse China A50 ETF (ASX: CETF) – Invests in a diversified portfolio comprising the 50 largest companies in the mainland (A-shares) Chinese market
• iShares International Equity ETFs – iShares China Large-Cap ETF (ASX: IZZ). 

Other ASX ETFs with Chinese exposure include: 

• Betashares Capital Ltd – Asia Technology Tigers Etf (ASX: ASIA) – Targets the 50 largest technology and online retail stocks in Asia (ex-Japan).
• VanEck Msci Multifactor Emerging Markets Equity ETF (ASX: EMKT) – Invests in a diversified portfolio of emerging market companies with value, low size, momentum and quality characteristics. Approximately 25% of the fund is currently allocated to China.

The post The unexpected global market showing resilience – 3 ASX ETFs to target appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Recent market volatility has created opportunities in certain sectors, while long-term structural trends continue to support others. Exchange traded funds (ETFs) offer a simple way to gain exposure to these opportunities without needing to pick individual winners.

Here are three of the best ASX ETFs to consider buying this month.

Betashares Global Defence ETF (ASX: ARMR)

The first ASX ETF to consider in March is the Betashares Global Defence ETF.

This fund focuses on companies involved in global defence and security, an area experiencing powerful structural tailwinds. Governments around the world are increasing defence budgets in response to rising geopolitical tensions and long-term security challenges.

The Betashares Global Defence ETF holds major defence contractors such as Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT), RTX Corporation (NYSE: RTX), Palantir Technologies Inc (NASDAQ: PLTR), and Northrop Grumman (NYSE: NOC). It also includes locally listed DroneShield Ltd (ASX: DRO).

These companies benefit from multi-year government contracts and sustained investment in military technology.

Unlike many sectors that are tied closely to economic cycles, defence spending is often driven by national security priorities. That creates a long-term demand backdrop that could support earnings growth across the industry.

This fund was recently recommended by analysts at Betashares.

Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ)

Another ASX ETF worth considering in March is the Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF.

This fund tracks the Nasdaq 100 index, which includes many of the world's most influential technology and innovation-driven companies. However, the tech sector has recently experienced a selloff amid concerns about artificial intelligence (AI) disrupting parts of the software industry.

For long-term investors, that weakness may present an opportunity. The fund's holdings include companies such as Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA), Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL), and Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT), as well as globally recognised brands like Starbucks (NASDAQ: SBUX) and Costco (NASDAQ: COST).

These companies are deeply embedded in global digital infrastructure, consumer platforms, and emerging technologies. If the Nasdaq stabilises, this fund could benefit from renewed investor confidence.

VanEck China New Economy ETF (ASX: CNEW)

A final ASX ETF to consider this month is the VanEck China New Economy ETF.

This fund focuses on China's new economy sectors rather than traditional state-owned industries.

China's economy is undergoing a long-term transition toward technology, consumer services, and advanced manufacturing. ETFs like this provide exposure to that shift, giving investors access to businesses positioned to benefit from evolving domestic demand and technological innovation.

It was recently recommended by analysts at VanEck.

The post 3 of the best ASX ETFs to buy in March appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

China's economy remains the world's second largest. And despite a choppy few years, it continues to grow at a pace that outstrips most developed markets. Policymakers are targeting consumption, advanced manufacturing, renewable energy and technology as the next engines of expansion.

For ASX investors wanting exposure to China without picking individual stocks, these three low-cost ASX ETFs offer a simple entry point.

iShares China Large-Cap ETF (ASX: IZZ)

This fund tracks the FTSE China 50 Index and provides exposure to 50 of the largest Chinese companies. Most of them are listed in Hong Kong.

Major holdings typically include Tencent Holdings Ltd (HKEX: 700), Alibaba Group Holding Ltd (HKEX: 9988) and China Construction Bank Corp. (SSE: 601939). These are dominant players in technology, e-commerce, financial services and consumer platforms.

The strength of IZZ lies in its focus on established giants that sit at the heart of China's corporate landscape. Investors gain diversified exposure to market leaders with strong balance sheets and deep competitive advantages.

The flip side is concentration risk. Large technology and financial stocks can dominate returns, and regulatory crackdowns or geopolitical tensions can hit these names hard. Reporting standards and government influence also remain ongoing risks.

VanEck China New Economy ETF (ASX: CNEW)

This ASX ETF targets companies positioned to benefit from China's shift toward innovation, healthcare, consumer brands and advanced technology.

Instead of old-economy state-owned banks and energy firms, investors gain access to areas such as biotech, electric vehicles, online services and premium consumer goods.

Holdings have included companies like BYD Company Ltd (SZSE: 002594), Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. (HKEX: 3750) and healthcare and technology innovators.

The key appeal of this ASX ETF is its alignment with structural growth themes. As China's middle class expands and domestic consumption rises, these sectors could outpace traditional industries.

However, growth stocks can be volatile. Earnings expectations are often high, and policy changes affecting data security, gaming, education or healthcare can quickly dent valuations.

VanEck FTSE China A50 ETF (ASX: CETF)

A third fund worth a look is the VanEck FTSE China A50 ETF. This ASX ETF tracks the FTSE China A50 Index and invests in 50 of the largest companies listed on mainland exchanges in Shanghai and Shenzhen.

That means direct exposure to so-called A-shares. Top holdings commonly include Kweichow Moutai Co. Ltd (SSE: 600519), China Merchants Bank Co. Ltd (HKEX: 3968) and leading industrial or renewable energy names.

The advantage of CETF is its closer link to China's domestic economy. A-shares often capture companies more focused on internal demand rather than offshore listings. This can provide diversification relative to Hong Kong-listed giants.

The risk, however, lies in sensitivity to domestic policy settings and liquidity conditions. Mainland markets can be more volatile, and foreign investor access rules can evolve over time.

Foolish Takeaway

All these ASX ETFs give investors the opportunity to enter China's long-term growth story. Yet investors must factor in currency movements, regulatory shifts and geopolitical tensions before diving in.

For those comfortable with the risks, adding measured China exposure through an ASX-listed ETF could offer meaningful diversification and growth potential over the long haul.

The post 3 ASX ETFs to target China's long-term growth appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Instead of trying to predict which individual company will outperform next year, many investors prefer to back broad themes and structural trends through exchange traded funds (ETFs). With the right mix, you can build an SMSF portfolio that evolves with the market.

Here are three different ASX ETFs to consider buying and holding for the long haul.

Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (ASX: VTS)

The first ASX ETF to consider is the Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF.

Unlike funds that track just the largest stocks, this one provides exposure to the entire US share market. This includes mega-cap giants down to smaller growth businesses. That means investors are not just backing today's leaders, but also tomorrow's potential disruptors.

Over time, some of the strongest returns in the US market have come from stocks that started small and grew into household names. The Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF captures that full lifecycle.

For long-term investors who believe in the depth and dynamism of the US economy, this broad exposure can be a powerful core holding.

Betashares Global Cash Flow Kings ETF (ASX: CFLO)

Another ASX ETF that could be worth holding for years is the Betashares Global Cash Flow Kings ETF.

This fund focuses on stocks that are generating strong free cash flow. In simple terms, it tilts toward businesses that convert revenue into real, usable money after expenses and investment.

Cash flow matters. It supports dividends, share buybacks, debt reduction, and reinvestment into growth. Companies with strong cash generation often prove more resilient during economic slowdowns.

Rather than chasing hype, the Betashares Global Cash Flow Kings ETF leans into financial strength. That can make it a steady long-term complement to broader market exposure. It was recently recommended by analysts at Betashares.

VanEck China New Economy ETF (ASX: CNEW)

For investors willing to look beyond developed markets, the VanEck China New Economy ETF adds a different dimension.

It focuses on China's new economy sectors. These are areas such as technology, healthcare, advanced manufacturing, and consumer upgrades. Instead of traditional state-owned enterprises, the ETF tilts toward businesses aligned with structural growth and rising domestic demand.

China remains one of the world's largest economies, and its consumption patterns are evolving rapidly. While volatility can be higher, long-term structural exposure can enhance portfolio diversification. It was also recently recommended by analysts at Betashares.

The post 3 top ASX ETFs to buy and hold in an SMSF appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Rather than focusing on broad market exposure, let's look at funds that lean into structural trends that could play out over many years. These are three that stand out to me right now.

BetaShares Global Defence ETF (ASX: ARMR)

Global defence spending has been rising, not falling. Governments across Europe, North America, and Asia are increasing defence budgets in response to geopolitical tensions and shifting security priorities. The ARMR ETF provides exposure to a diversified portfolio of global defence companies involved in aerospace, military equipment, and advanced technologies.

The appeal of this ASX ETF for me lies in the durability of the theme. Defence contracts tend to be long term, and spending decisions are often driven by strategic considerations rather than short-term economic cycles. For investors seeking exposure to increased global defence investment, I think the BetaShares Global Defence ETF offers a straightforward way to participate.

BetaShares Crypto Innovators ETF (ASX: CRYP)

The CRYP ETF provides exposure to stocks involved in the cryptocurrency and blockchain ecosystem. It holds global businesses such as crypto exchanges, miners, and infrastructure providers that benefit from increased digital asset adoption. Unlike holding a single cryptocurrency, this ASX ETF spreads risk across multiple players in the industry.

Cryptocurrency markets have experienced a recent sell-off, which has weighed on sentiment. For investors who remain confident in the long-term future of digital assets and blockchain technology, I think periods of weakness like this can present opportunities to gain exposure at lower prices.

But it is important to understand that the CRYP ETF is volatile and not suitable for every investor. I would only buy it if I believed in the long-term growth of crypto infrastructure.

VanEck China New Economy ETF (ASX: CNEW)

The CNEW ETF offers exposure to China's evolving economy. It targets stocks that are well-positioned in consumer, technology, healthcare, and innovation-driven sectors. It aims to capture growth in areas aligned with domestic consumption, innovation, and structural change.

Chinese equities have faced volatility and mixed sentiment in recent years. That uncertainty has weighed on valuations in parts of the market. For investors willing to accept that volatility, the VanEck China New Economy ETF provides a way to access long-term growth themes within the world's second-largest economy.

Foolish takeaway

Exciting ETFs often come with higher volatility, but they also offer exposure to themes that could shape the next decade.

The ARMR ETF taps into rising global defence spending, the CRYP ETF provides access to the crypto ecosystem at a time when prices have pulled back, and the CNEW ETF focuses on China's economic transition.

For investors with a higher risk tolerance and a long-term horizon, I believe these three ASX ETFs could be worth considering this month.

The post 3 exciting ASX ETFs to buy with $3,000 this month appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Exchange traded funds (ETFs) can be particularly powerful over these horizons, because they let investors benefit from long-term trends without needing to constantly adjust their portfolio as individual winners and losers change.

With that mindset, here are three ASX ETFs that could be well suited to a true buy-and-hold approach measured in decades rather than years.

iShares S&P 500 AUD ETF (ASX: IVV)

The first ASX ETF to consider for a 25-year horizon is the iShares S&P 500 AUD ETF.

It tracks the S&P 500 Index, which represents the largest and most influential companies in the United States. What makes this fund particularly attractive over long periods is its ability to evolve. Companies that lose relevance are removed, while new leaders are added as the economy changes. That adaptability could make it a compelling long-term core holding.

Current holdings include businesses such as Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT), Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL), and NVIDIA (NASDAQ: NVDA). These companies sit at the centre of global innovation, capital markets, and technology investment.

VanEck China New Economy ETF (ASX: CNEW)

Another ASX ETF that could reward patient investors is the VanEck China New Economy ETF.

It focuses on China's new economy, targeting companies involved in areas such as technology, healthcare, advanced manufacturing, and domestic consumption.

The ETF holds a wide range of emerging leaders, including businesses such as Intsig Information and Shennan Circuits. Many of these companies are still early in their growth journeys and benefit from rising incomes, innovation, and domestic demand.

China's market can be volatile, but over a 25-year period, exposure to a transforming economy could prove valuable for investors willing to tolerate short-term uncertainty. It was recently recommended by VanEck.

VanEck Morningstar International Wide Moat ETF (ASX: GOAT)

A final ASX ETF to consider for long-term investors is the VanEck Morningstar International Wide Moat ETF.

This fund provides exposure to a concentrated portfolio of international companies that have sustainable competitive advantages, or wide economic moats, that can endure for 20 years or more.

Importantly, the ETF also applies a valuation discipline, targeting companies trading below the estimate of fair value.

Holdings include businesses such as Roche Holding (SWX: ROG), GSK (LSE: GSK), and Constellation Brands (NYSE: STZ). These are established global companies with strong brands, intellectual property, or regulatory advantages that make them difficult to displace. The fund manager also recently recommended this ETF.

The post 3 ASX ETFs to buy and hold for 25 years appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Rather than focusing on one country or one outcome, the right mix of ETFs can provide exposure to different growth drivers, economic cycles, and business models around the world.

With that in mind, here are three ASX ETFs that could be worth considering right now, each offering something quite different.

VanEck China New Economy ETF (ASX: CNEW)

The first ASX ETF to consider is the VanEck China New Economy ETF.

It is focused on businesses tied to China's domestic consumption, innovation, and healthcare trends. This includes companies operating in areas such as pharmaceuticals, advanced manufacturing, and technology-enabled services.

Examples of holdings include Intsig Information and Giantec Semiconductor. These types of businesses are more exposed to rising incomes, digital adoption, and industrial upgrading than to global commodity cycles.

For Australian investors, the VanEck China New Economy ETF offers a way to gain exposure to China's evolving economy rather than its old one.

It was recently recommended by analysts at VanEck.

Betashares India Quality ETF (ASX: IIND)

Another ASX ETF that could be a buy is the Betashares India Quality ETF.

India's growth story is often discussed in broad terms, but this fund takes a more selective approach by focusing on higher-quality companies rather than the market as a whole. This ETF targets businesses with strong balance sheets, consistent earnings, and solid returns on capital.

Holdings include companies such as Infosys (NYSE: INFY) and HDFC Bank (NSEI: HDFCBANK), which play central roles in India's technology services and financial systems.

What makes this fund a stand out is its emphasis on durability. India's economy is expected to grow for decades, but not every company will benefit equally. By filtering for quality, this ASX ETF aims to capture growth while reducing some of the risks that can come with fast-expanding markets.

This fund was recently recommended by analysts at Betashares.

Betashares Global Quality Leaders ETF (ASX: QLTY)

A final ASX ETF to look at is the Betashares Global Quality Leaders ETF.

This ASX ETF invests in global companies with strong competitive advantages, high profitability, and consistent earnings growth. Rather than simply backing size or popularity, the ETF focuses on businesses that have demonstrated an ability to defend margins and generate returns over long periods.

To avoid the usual examples, holdings include Adobe (NASDAQ: ADBE) and LVMH (FRA: MO). These companies operate in very different industries, but both benefit from powerful brands, pricing power, and loyal customer bases.

For Australian investors, the Betashares Global Quality Leaders ETF can act as a core global holding. It provides exposure to world-class businesses across regions and sectors, without requiring constant changes as leadership shifts over time.

The fund manager also recently recommended this fund to investors.

The post 3 of the best ASX ETFs for Australian investors to buy now appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

In its Investment and Economic Outlook report, the investment firm provided commentary on Australia, USA, Mexico, Japan, UK, Canada, Europe, and China. 

Chinese equities have been an emerging story for global investors thanks to the country's AI development and exposure.

China is a global leader in semiconductor production, but it isn't limiting its AI participation to this segment. 

Last month, I covered that Chinese companies engaged in battery manufacturing and Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) have been benefiting from the Chinese AI boom. 

However, a new report from Vanguard has provided a more modest outlook on Chinese equities moving forward. 

AI to drive near-term growth, but upside is limited

In yesterday's report from Vanguard, the ETF provider said China's AI development appears faster but less impactful than that of the US. 

According to the report, China's front-loaded strategy is driven by a strong digital ecosystem, robust energy infrastructure, greater acceptance of AI, aggressive government funding, and a vast talent pool in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. 

Vanguard said these factors imply near-term upside risk, but it sees more limited upside potential for capital deepening and productivity gains. 

Efficient models and strong infrastructure reduce the need for heavy investment, and China's labour market is significantly less exposed to potential AI automation because jobs are far more concentrated in agriculture, manufacturing, and construction than in the US.

Commenting on this outlook, Grant Feng, Vanguard Senior Economist, said: 

Faster AI adoption in China will boost real growth in the near term, but the upside potential is limited for future capital deepening and productivity gains. Structural headwinds are strong, and AI alone won't be enough to lift the economy.

The report said Vanguard expects GDP growth to ease modestly to 4.5% in 2026, with tariff drags partly offset by a rebound in manufacturing and infrastructure investment. 

How can Aussie investors get exposure to Chinese equities?

For Aussie investors more bullish on the Chinese market, there are a few pure-play thematic ETFs to consider. 

The first is the iShares China Large-Cap AUD ETF (ASX: IZZ). 

As the name suggests, it is designed to measure the performance of 50 of the largest and most liquid Chinese companies that trade on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange.

It has risen roughly 13.8% in the last year. 

Investors more focused on Chinese tech exposure might consider the Global X China Tech ETF (ASX: DRGN). 

It offers access to 20 leading Chinese technology companies listed in Hong Kong and Mainland across 15 core sectors, including semiconductors, robotics, software, and internet platforms.

It has risen more than 20% in the last year. 

Finally, VanEck China New Economy ETF (ASX: CNEW) offers exposure to roughly 120 Chinese companies with growth prospects in sectors that make up 'the New Economy'. 

These are sectors such as technology, health care, consumer staples, and consumer discretionary.

It has risen 14% in the last 12 months. 

The post Should Aussie investors have exposure to Chinese equities in 2026? – Expert  appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Short-term market noise fades into the background and what really matters is whether the businesses you own can keep growing, adapting, and generating cash over long periods.

That is where exchange traded funds (ETFs) can be especially useful. They allow investors to back enduring themes and high-quality stocks without needing to constantly reshuffle a portfolio.

With a 10-year-plus horizon in mind, here are three ASX ETFs that could be worth buying and holding until 2036.

Betashares Global Cash Flow Kings ETF (ASX: CFLO)

The Betashares Global Cash Flow Kings ETF could be an ASX ETF to buy and hold.

Rather than focusing purely on growth or valuation, this fund targets global stocks that generate strong and sustainable free cash flow.

That cash generation gives businesses flexibility. It can be used to reinvest, reduce debt, pay dividends, or return capital to shareholders.

The portfolio includes high-quality global leaders such as ASML Holding (NASDAQ: ASML), Alphabet (NASDAQ: GOOGL), Costco Wholesale (NASDAQ: COST), NVIDIA (NASDAQ: NVDA), and Visa (NYSE: V). These are businesses that not only operate at scale but consistently turn revenue into real cash.

It was recently recommended by analysts at Betashares.

VanEck MSCI International Quality ETF (ASX: QUAL)

The VanEck MSCI International Quality ETF is another ASX ETF that could be suitable for buy and hold investors.

This ASX ETF invests in international stocks with strong balance sheets, high returns on equity, and stable earnings profiles. These characteristics tend to matter more as time horizons extend, because they reduce the risk of permanent capital loss.

Its holdings read like a list of global corporate leaders. This includes Meta Platforms (NASDAQ: META), NVIDIA, Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL), Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT), Eli Lilly (NYSE: LLY), Alphabet, Visa, and ASML Holding.

This fund was recently recommended to investors by analysts at VanEck.

VanEck China New Economy ETF (ASX: CNEW)

The VanEck China New Economy ETF is a third and final fund for investors to look at.

This ASX ETF targets stocks that are tied to China's emerging sectors such as healthcare, technology, advanced manufacturing, and consumer innovation.

Holdings include businesses like Intsig Information, Giantec Semiconductor, Shennan Circuits, and several pharmaceutical and biotechnology stocks. These are areas China has been actively investing in as it looks to move up the value chain.

The VanEck China New Economy ETF is certainly not without risk, but over a 10-year horizon it offers exposure to a part of the global economy that is likely to keep evolving.

It was also recently recommended by analysts at VanEck.

The post 3 ASX ETFs to buy and hold until 2036 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Rather than trying to pick stocks, ETFs allow investors to back broad themes, regions, or investment styles through a single ASX-listed investment. For those wanting to spread risk while positioning for long-term growth, the right mix of ETFs can be a powerful tool.

With that in mind, here are three ASX ETFs that could appeal to investors looking for exposure to very different global themes.

iShares S&P 500 AUD ETF (ASX: IVV)

The first ASX ETF that could be a buy is the iShares S&P 500 ETF. It is one of the simplest ways for Australian investors to gain exposure to the US share market.

This fund tracks the S&P 500 Index, which includes 500 of the largest and most influential stocks listed in the United States. These businesses operate across technology, healthcare, consumer goods, financials, and industrials, making the index a broad representation of corporate America.

What makes the IVV ETF particularly attractive is the quality of its underlying holdings. The S&P 500 includes global leaders with scale, strong balance sheets, and significant pricing power. Over long periods, these companies have benefited from innovation, productivity growth, and access to the world's largest capital market.

VanEck MSCI International Value ETF (ASX: VLUE)

Another ASX ETF that could be worth considering is the VanEck MSCI International Value ETF. It offers a very different approach by focusing on valuation rather than momentum.

This fund invests in a diversified portfolio of international large- and mid-cap companies that exhibit value characteristics, such as lower price-to-earnings and price-to-book ratios relative to peers. The portfolio spans multiple countries and sectors, reducing reliance on any single market.

Its holdings currently include Micron Technology (NASDAQ: MU), Western Digital (NASDAQ: WDC), and Cisco Systems (NASDAQ: CSCO).

The VanEck MSCI International Value ETF was recently recommended by the fund manager.

VanEck China New Economy ETF (ASX: CNEW)

Finally, the VanEck China New Economy ETF could be a top pick for Aussie investors.

This ASX ETF is designed to capture the evolution of China's economy away from traditional industries and toward technology, consumption, and innovation.

It invests in Chinese stocks operating in areas such as ecommerce, digital services, healthcare innovation, and advanced manufacturing. These businesses are often aligned with rising domestic consumption and long-term structural change within the Chinese economy.

While investing in China comes with additional risks, this fund offers targeted exposure to growth areas that are traditionally difficult to access. It was also recently recommended by VanEck.

The post Why the IVV ETF and these funds could be top buys in 2026 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

But which funds could be top picks for investors in January? Let's take a look at three that stand out for good reason. Here's what you need to know about them:

Betashares Cloud Computing ETF (ASX: CLDD)

The first ASX ETF for investors to look at is the Betashares Cloud Computing ETF. It offers targeted exposure to one of the most important technology shifts of our time.

Cloud infrastructure and software underpin everything from remote work and ecommerce to artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, and that reliance is only increasing.

The fund holds a range of global cloud leaders, including Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT), ServiceNow (NYSE: NOW), Shopify (NASDAQ: SHOP), Salesforce (NYSE: CRM), and Snowflake (NYSE: SNOW). These companies sit at the core of enterprise digital transformation, generating largely recurring revenue from mission-critical services.

Cloud adoption is still expanding globally, and even though tech stocks can be volatile, the underlying demand for cloud services is structural rather than cyclical. This bodes well for the future.

Betashares recently recommended the fund to investors.

VanEck MSCI International Value ETF (ASX: VLUE)

While growth gets most of the headlines, value investing tends to shine over full market cycles.

The VanEck MSCI International Value ETF provides investors with exposure to developed-market stocks that are trading at attractive valuations based on fundamentals such as earnings and cash flow.

At present, this ASX ETF's portfolio includes well-known global names such as Cisco Systems (NASDAQ: CSCO), Micron Technology (NASDAQ: MU), and Western Digital (NASDAQ: WDC). It is also less concentrated in mega-cap US tech than many global indices, which can help diversify portfolio risk.

Overall, the VanEck MSCI International Value ETF could be a useful counterbalance to growth-focused ETFs. It provides exposure to businesses that are profitable, established, and often overlooked when markets become fixated on the latest trend. VanEck recently recommended the fund.

VanEck China New Economy ETF (ASX: CNEW)

Lastly, the VanEck China New Economy ETF could be worth a look.

While it is not for the faint-hearted, it offers exposure to an area with enormous long-term potential. Rather than focusing on China's old-economy giants, this ASX ETF targets stocks aligned with the country's evolving consumer, healthcare, and technology sectors.

The fund holds a diversified portfolio of 120 China A-share stocks that are operating in areas such as advanced manufacturing, healthcare, and consumer services. These are businesses benefiting from rising incomes, urbanisation, and domestic consumption trends. This fund was also recommended by VanEck.

The post Where to invest $10,000 in ASX ETFs this month appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

For those who prefer a diversified, low-effort approach, exchange-traded funds (ETFs) remain one of the simplest ways to gain exposure to high-quality businesses and powerful global themes.

With that in mind, here are three ASX ETFs that could be excellent additions to a portfolio in January and beyond:

Betashares Global Quality Leaders ETF (ASX: QLTY)

The Betashares Global Quality Leaders ETF is designed for investors who want exposure to some of the strongest businesses in the world, without having to pick individual stocks. The fund focuses on companies with high returns on equity, strong balance sheets, and consistent earnings growth.

Its holdings include global leaders such as Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT), Visa (NYSE: V), and Johnson & Johnson (NYSE: JNJ). These are businesses with sustainable competitive advantages and pricing power, which helps them perform across different economic cycles. For investors starting the year with a long-term mindset, this ETF offers an effective way to build a portfolio around quality.

It was recently recommended by analysts at Betashares.

VanEck China New Economy ETF (ASX: CNEW)

The VanEck China New Economy ETF provides exposure to a very different opportunity set. It targets companies operating in China's new economy, including technology, healthcare, consumer, and advanced manufacturing businesses.

The fund holds a diversified portfolio of around 120 China stocks that are considered fundamentally sound and attractively valued. This includes businesses involved in pharmaceuticals, software, electric vehicles, and consumer brands serving China's growing middle class.

While China-related investments can be higher risk, this fund could suit investors willing to take a long-term view on the country's economic transformation.

Analysts at VanEck recently recommended this fund to investors.

Betashares Global Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF (ASX: RBTZ)

Finally, the Betashares Global Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF offers targeted exposure to one of the most powerful investment themes of the coming decade.

It is fair to say that automation and AI are reshaping industries ranging from manufacturing and healthcare to logistics and defence.

This fund's holdings include stocks such as Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA), ABB (SWX: ABBN), and Intuitive Surgical (NASDAQ: ISRG). They all sit at the heart of the AI and automation boom.

And while this fund could be more volatile than broader market ETFs, it also offers significant long-term growth potential for investors prepared to ride out short-term swings.

It was also recently recommended by the team at Betashares.

The post 3 excellent ASX ETFs to buy in January appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

In fact, investing smaller amounts regularly can be one of the smartest ways to build long-term wealth, especially when you use exchange-traded funds (ETFs).

ETFs let you spread your money across dozens or even hundreds of stocks all in a single trade. That makes them ideal for investors who want diversification, global exposure, and a simple way to get their money working without having to pick individual stocks.

If you have $250 to invest this month, here are three ASX ETFs that could be worth considering.

iShares S&P 500 ETF (ASX: IVV)

The iShares S&P 500 ETF is a great foundation for almost any portfolio, regardless of how much you are investing. It tracks the S&P 500 index, which represents 500 of the largest and most influential stocks in the United States.

Its holdings include household names like Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA), Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT), Costco Wholesale (NASDAQ: COST), Berkshire Hathaway (NYSE: BRK.B), and JPMorgan Chase (NYSE: JPM). Importantly, it also includes plenty of high-quality businesses outside the mega-cap tech giants.

For a small investment, this fund offers instant exposure to the world's most powerful economy and a long history of strong long-term returns. It is the kind of ETF you can keep adding to month after month.

VanEck Video Gaming and Esports ETF (ASX: ESPO)

If you want to add a growth tilt to your $250 investment, the VanEck Video Gaming and Esports ETF could be an exciting option. It provides investors with targeted exposure to the global video game and esports industry, which continues to grow as gaming becomes a mainstream form of entertainment.

The fund holds companies such as Tencent Holdings (SEHK: 700), Nintendo, Electronic Arts (NASDAQ: EA), Take-Two Interactive (NASDAQ: TTWO), and Roblox (NYSE: RBLX). These businesses sit at the intersection of technology, media, and consumer spending.

Overall, this ASX offers a way to invest in a high-growth theme without relying on a single company to succeed, which is especially useful when investing smaller amounts. It was recently recommended by analysts at VanEck.

VanEck China New Economy ETF (ASX: CNEW)

Finally, the VanEck China New Economy ETF could be worth a look. It offers exposure to companies that are driving China's new economy.

There are a total of 120 fundamentally sound and attractively valued Chinese stocks across sectors such as technology, healthcare, consumer staples, and consumer discretionary. Its holdings include a broad mix of domestically focused businesses that benefit from rising incomes, urbanisation, and long-term structural change.

It was also recently recommended by analysts at VanEck.

The post Where to invest $250 in ASX ETFs this month appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

But there might be another market set to benefit long term. 

Alice Shen, Portfolio Manager at VanEck said in a recent report that Nvidia Inc (NASDAQ: NVDA) posted gravity-defying earnings in its most recent October quarter. 

This came as the AI economy increasingly looped back on itself and the major players invested in each other's technologies.

Ms Shen said giants like OpenAI and Oracle Corp (NYSE: ORCL) are locking in the chip supply needed to scale their models. This means demand for Nvidia hardware could soar even more.

How does China fit into the AI puzzle?

AI euphoria isn't limited to the US. 

The Chinese market has also been focussed on homegrown AI technology and chipmaking. 

Subsequently, valuations for pure-play AI stocks have soared.

While China is a global leader in semiconductor production, it isn't limiting its AI participation to this segment. 

Ms Shen believes China may be taking a different, more holistic approach compared to the western world.

The tremendous amounts of electricity, cooling, metal-intensive data centres, and resilient power supply required by AI have been the focus of many Chinese companies that have been specialising in these systems for decades.

For investors, this means there could be more reasonably priced opportunities across the broader supply chain that powers the physical backbone of AI: metals producers, energy storage leaders, and optical fibre manufacturers.

The AI boom isn't just digital 

When you think of AI, the first thing that comes to mind might be cloud computing, Chat AI tools, etc. 

But the truth is, the data centres fuelling these AI solutions require huge amounts of copper and aluminium in servers and heatsinks. 

Data indicates global copper demand could surge as much as 24% by 2035, with data centre expansion being one of the key drivers. 

According to VanEck, China may have an advantage is its integrated value chain across mining, refining and manufacturing.

Several Chinese copper and aluminium miners have been outperforming the CSI 300 Materials Index this year. In our view, investing in these metals may offer a more cost-effective and direct way to participate in China's AI capex cycle.

Chinese companies engaged in battery manufacturing and Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) have also been soaring this year as a result of the Chinese AI boom. 

How do investors gain exposure?

For investors here in Australia, the most important question is how to gain exposure to this market. 

There are a few ASX ETFs directly targeting Chinese technology and AI: 

• VanEck China New Economy ETF (ASX: CNEW) – Invests in 120 fundamentally sound and attractively valued companies with growth prospects in China's New Economy, targeting technology, healthcare, and consumer staples and consumer discretionary sectors.
• VanEck Ftse China A50 ETF (ASX: CETF) – Invests in a diversified portfolio comprising the 50 largest companies in the mainland (A-shares) Chinese market.
• Global X China Tech Etf (ASX: DRGN) – designed to track the performance of 20 leading technology companies listed in Mainland China and Hong Kong. The index selects across 15 innovation-linked sectors, including semiconductors, automation, industrial software, and internet platforms.

The post How to target China's AI rush through ASX investing appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The United States fired the first shots, with US President Donald Trump initially placing a 25% import tax on goods entering the United States economy from the People's Republic of China.

That 25% tariff now feels like a long time ago. In a series of escalations that have descended into an outright trade war, China has retaliated, with the US retaliating to China's retaliation. As it currently stands, the US imposes a massive 145% tariff on Chinese imports, while the Chinese government reciprocates with a 125% levy on American imports.

Only a few days ago, Trump announced that certain electronics would be exempt from the China tariff. But those narrow exemptions are the only concession either side has made so far in this growing trade war.

This whole saga appears to be a classic game of brinkmanship. When it will end is anyone's guess. Meanwhile, every other country is breathing a sigh of relief after Trump delayed the imposition of the other (and severe in many cases) 'reciprocal' tariffs that he first announced on 'Liberation Day' on 2 April.

For now, there is no global trade war.

However, don't forget that the US still maintains a baseline 10% tariff on most imports entering the United States.

So, it goes without saying that both the US and Chinese economies are about to enter a volatile period, with China's economy arguably in the firing line. They previously had a very lucrative trade relationship worth hundreds of billions of dollars. Now, direct trade between the two countries will almost certainly grind to a halt.

These ASX ETFs are in the trade war firing line

This trade war has implications for investors, even here on the ASX.

So, which ASX exchange-traded funds (ETFs) are the most exposed to the Chinese economy? That's what we'll be diving into next.

Obviously, any ASX ETF that holds a significant number of Chinese stocks will bear the brunt of any fallout in the Chinese stock markets.

First up, let's check out the iShares China Large-Cap ETF (ASX: IZZ).

This ASX ETF is completely exposed to Chinese stocks. It holds around 50 of the largest Chinese companies listed on the Hong Kong stock exchange. Some of its largest holdings include Tencent, Alibaba, Meituan, and Xiaomi Corp.

The iShares China Large-Cap ETF is down by more than 14% since mid-March.

What about mainland Chinese stocks?

Another China-focused fund that might cop some heat from the trade war is the VanEck China New Economy ETF (ASX: CNEW).

This ETF is a little different from IZZ. Instead of the Hong Kong stock exchange, CNEW exclusively tracks consumer discretionary, consumer staples, healthcare, and tech stocks listed on the Shanghai and Shenzhen exchanges. Its largest holdings include Yankership Food Co, Runben Biotechnology Co, and Shanghai Allist Pharmaceuticals.

At current pricing, the VanEck China New Economy ETF has slumped by around 9% since mid-March.

A final fund that could take a trade war hit is the VanEck FTSE China A50 ETF (ASX: CETF). This fund is similar to IZZ. However, it holds 50 of the largest companies on mainland China's stock exchanges, rather than Hong Kong.

Its largest stocks include Kweichow Moutai Co, BYD Co, China Yangtze Power Co, and Contemporary Amperex Technology Co.

CETF units have retreated by more than 6% since mid-March.

The post Trade war heats up: Which ASX ETFs are most exposed to China? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.