And Aussie investors love 'em.

There is now a record $372 billion invested across 458 ETFs on the market today, according to Betashares data.

Demonstrating their rising popularity, ASX ETFs attracted a net $30 billion of investment in the second half of FY26.

Back in 2024, $30 billion was the amount invested over the full year.

The industry is responding by introducing new products, with a record 72 new ETFs commencing trading in FY26.

This product expansion is allowing investors to direct more money into thematic trends.

Senior investment strategist, Marc Jocum from Global X commented (courtesy Australian Financial Review):

It's been a record year for thematic ETF investing driven by the energy transition and AI, so the way Aussie investors are allocating is changing.

Historically, investors sought outperformance through active managers, but that is slowly changing as investors are now seeking outperformance through exposure selection instead – the past was 'who' to back, now it's 'what' to back.

The Australian Securities Exchange has just released the full-year performance data for ASX ETFs in FY26.

The data reveals the six ASX ETFs holding international shares that delivered the best total returns last year.

Let's take a look.

Top 6 international ETFs for total returns in FY26

The popularity of thematic investing is showcased in the top 6 ASX ETFs for total returns last financial year.

Total returns incorporate both share price gains and distributions (dividends).

1. iShares MSCI South Korea AUD ETF (ASX: IKO)

The IKO ETF delivered a spectacular one-year total return of 171%. The historical distribution yield is 4.6%.

This ASX ETF seeks to mirror the tech-heavy MSCI Korea 25/50 Index, providing exposure to Korea's largest companies.

IKO ETF paid the biggest dollar-value dividend among iShares ETFs this season at $13.98 per unit.

IKO ETF is $246.58 per unit, up 2.7% on Thursday.

2. Global X Semiconductor ETF (ASX: SEMI)

The SEMI ETF produced a ripping one-year return of 161%. The historical distribution yield is 6.2%.

SEMI is linked to the massive artificial intelligence (AI) investment thematic.

Semiconductors control electrical currents in computer chips and everyday devices like smartphones.

SEMI ETF is $38.01 per unit, up 2.1% today.

3. Global X Hydrogen AUD ETF (ASX: HGEN)

The HGEN ETF returned 135% in FY26. The historical distribution yield is 0.7%.

HGEN invests in companies within the global hydrogen industry. Hydrogen is considered a powerful green energy source.

HGEN ETF is $9.89 per unit, up 0.5% today.

4. Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF (ASX: ASIA)

The ASIA ETF delivered a one-year return of 96%. The historical distribution yield is 1.7%.

ASIA ETF invests in 50 of the largest technology and online retail shares in Asia (ex-Japan).

ASIA ETF is $20.39 per unit, up 1.7% today.

5. Betashares Energy Transition Metals ETF (ASX: XMET)

The XMET ETF delivered a one-year return of 83%. The historical distribution yield is 3.6%.

This ASX ETF invests in global metals producers specifically involved in the green energy transition.

The metals in demand include copper, lithium, nickel, cobalt, graphite, manganese, silver, and rare earths.

XMET ETF is $14.03 per unit, up 1.6%.

6. Global X S&P Biotech ETF (ASX: CURE)

The CURE ETF delivered a total annual return of 81%. This ETF does not pay distributions.

CURE ETF invests in genomic science companies.

They include businesses involved in gene editing, genomic sequencing, and genetic medicine and therapy.

CURE ETF is $73.83 per unit, down 1% today.

The post 6 best international ASX ETFs of FY26 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Exploring the ASX ETFs that have captured momentum is a great way to identify opportunities. 

These opportunities stretch across global markets and sectors underrepresented here in Australia. 

ASX ETFs that capture these sectors provide investors with a chance to diversify away from ASX focussed portfolios. 

Here are three funds that have raced ahead of the ASX this year. 

Global X S&P Biotech ETF (ASX: CURE)

This ASX ETF invests in companies that may benefit from further advances in genomic science. This includes companies involved in gene editing, genomic sequencing, genetic medicine/therapy, computational genomics, and biotechnology.

The fund provides global exposure to emerging areas within the Health Care sector, at the intersection of science and technology.

Examples of biotechnology companies include those focused on immunotherapy treatments and vaccines to treat human disease. 

As many investors are aware, healthcare and technology are heavily underrepresented on the ASX compared with sectors such as resources and financials. 

This fund could attract investors looking to allocate funding to these sectors that are more prominent in the US. 

The fund has rocketed over the last month, and is subsequently up 25% year to date. 

VanEck Global Clean Energy ETF (ASX: CLNE)

This ASX ETF gives investors a diversified portfolio of 30 of the largest and most liquid companies involved in clean energy production and associated technology and clean energy equipment globally.

It targets businesses related to clean energy production and associated technology and equipment globally, from both developed and emerging markets. 

Relevant business activities include but are not limited to:

• Biofuel & biomass energy production, technology & equipment
• Ethanol & fuel alcohol production
• Fuel cells technology & equipment
• Geothermal energy production
• Hydro electricity production, turbines & other equipment
• Solar energy production, photo voltaic cells & equipment
• Wind energy production, turbines & other equipment. 

Year to date, it has risen an impressive 14%. 

BetaShares Japan ETF – Currency Hedged (ASX: HJPN)

This ASX ETF tracks the performance of an index (before fees and expenses) that provides diversified exposure to the largest globally competitive Japanese companies.

Japan has emerged as one of the most compelling markets for long-term investors after decades of deflation and muted investor interest. 

A combination of structural changes is reshaping the investment landscape, while corporate governance reforms are now gaining momentum. 

These tailwinds have contributed to this ASX ETF rising 18% year to date and 47% in the last 12 months. 

The post 3 of the best performing ASX ETFs to own right now appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

For example, hot topics this year have been the boom in ASX gold and silver shares.

Similarly, global defence emerged as a stock market winner. 

These sectors have been hotly covered – and rightly so. 

But there have been other niche themes that have brought investors strong returns. 

While many ASX ETFs are designed to track broad markets, this year more and more funds have joined the ASX targeting more niche themes.

This kind of investing is called thematic investing. 

Here are some ASX ETFs that fit into that category that have enjoyed big gains this year on the back of targeting niche sectors or themes. 

Betashares Video Games and Esports ETF (ASX: GAME)

Put simply, this fund provides a portfolio of leading global video gaming and esports companies.

According to Betashares, the video games and esports industry has been growing strongly, with industry revenue, profit margins, and the number of global players all forecast to increase in the coming years.

Video games and Esports now generate more revenue than the movie and North American sports industries combined. 

At the time of writing, it is made up of 37 holdings. 

Three countries dominate the weighting of this fund: 

• Japan (35.1%)
• United States (32.6%)
• China (21.0%)

In 2025, the fund has risen by an impressive 26.72%. 

VanEck Vectors Video Gaming And eSports ETF (ASX: ESPO)

This fund focussed on the Esports and Gaming industry has also had success in 2025.  

The VanEck fund gives investors exposure to a diversified portfolio of the largest and most liquid companies involved in video game development, esports as well as related hardware and software globally.

At the time of writing it is made up of 25 holdings, with a similar geographic profile to the previous fund: 

• Japan (29.0%)
• United States (28.3%)
• China (21.1%) 

In 2025, the fund has risen by almost 12%. 

Global X S&P Biotech ETF (ASX: CURE)

This ASX ETF invests in companies that potentially stand to benefit from further advances in the field of genomic science, such as companies involved in gene editing, genomic sequencing, genetic medicine/therapy, computational genomics, and biotechnology.

Essentially, this niche fund provides global exposure to emerging areas within the health care sector, at the intersection of science and technology.

It has more than 125 holdings, with no individual company representing more than 1.45% of the total fund. 

This theme has brought strong returns in 2025, with this fund rising almost 28%. 

The post 3 ASX ETFs to target in the new year – the booming themes of 2025 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Recent trends have seen big returns in sectors like tech and financials. 

If you were exposed to these sectors before the last couple of years, you would likely be sitting pretty today. 

One important piece of data I am aware of, is Australia's ageing population. 

Looking ahead

Data from the Australian Bureau of statistics shows in 2020, there were an estimated 4.2 million older Australians (aged 65 and over) – comprising 16% of the total Australian population. 

In the next 30 years, this number is projected to increase to more than 20%. 

Essentially, one in five Australians will be over the age of 65. 

Why is that the case?

Firstly, advances in healthcare, medical technology, and living standards mean Australians are living longer. 

Secondly, the baby boomer generation (born between 1946 and 1964) is progressively reaching retirement age.

As this large demographic group moves into the 65+ age bracket, it significantly increases the overall percentage of older Australians.

What does this mean for investors?

When we project this data for the long term, it makes me aware of the enormous demand for several key sectors in the decades ahead. 

One key area that is set to benefit is the healthcare sector. As we age, the demand for healthcare services increases. 

Some key ASX listed stocks that could be set to benefit include: 

• CSL Ltd (CSL): Global leader in blood plasma, vaccines, and biotherapies.
• Cochlear Ltd (COH): Implants for hearing loss, common in older adults.
• ResMed Inc (ASX: RMD): Sleep apnea devices, increasingly used by ageing populations.
• Ramsay Health Care Ltd (ASX: RHC): Operates private hospitals across Australia and globally.
• Healius Ltd (ASX: HLS) and Sonic Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SHL) Pathology and diagnostic services.

Other key companies to monitor are those in the pharmaceuticals & biotechnology space, aged care & retirement living and wealth management. 

These areas all play an important role in caring for older Australians.

Which ASX ETFs give exposure to these sectors?

While these individual stocks may have plenty of upside, there are thematic ASX ETFs that combine hundreds of these options into one fund. 

An ageing population is not a unique problem only here in Australia.

In fact, the World Health Organisation recently revealed life expectancy at birth reached 73.3 years in 2024, an increase of 8.4 years since 1995.

The number of people aged 60 and older worldwide is projected to increase from 1.1 billion in 2023 to 1.4 billion by 2030.

Global X S&P Biotech ETF (ASX: CURE)

This fund seeks to invest in companies that potentially stand to benefit from further advances in the field of genomic science, such as companies involved in gene editing, genomic sequencing, genetic medicine/therapy, computational genomics, and biotechnology.

It is made up of roughly 124 holdings, with no individual company representing more than 3.3% of the fund.

iShares Global Healthcare ETF (ASX: IXJ)

The index is designed to measure the performance of global biotechnology, healthcare, medical equipment and pharmaceuticals companies and may include large, mid or small-capitalisation stocks.

Its largest holdings include Eli Lilly, Johnson and Johnson and ABBVIE Inc.

It also includes a small exposure to Australian companies in this sector. 

BetaShares Global Healthcare ETF – Currency Hedged (ASX: DRUG)

DRUG WTF aims to track the performance of an index (before fees and expenses) that comprises the largest global healthcare companies (ex-Australia), hedged into Australian dollars. 

At the time of writing it provides access to 59 of the world's leading healthcare companies, such as Johnson & Johnson, Pfizer and Roche, in one trade.

The post The long game: ASX ETFs to target amidst an ageing population appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Earlier this week I covered the ETFs that had outperformed the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) in the past 12 months. 

However it can be difficult to pull the trigger on funds that appear to be at or above fair value. 

Looking at pooled investment options that have fallen can be a great way to gain exposure to a sector or themed fund that has struggled in recent times, but has long term upside. 

Let's look at some ETFs that have fallen considerably in the last year. 

BetaShares Australian Resources Sector ETF (ASX: QRE)

This fund tracks the performance of an index comprising the largest ASX-listed companies in the resources sector, including BHP, Rio Tinto, Woodside Petroleum and more.

Its largest holding by weight is BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) which makes up 35.5% of the fund. 

With thematic ETFs such as this one, you face increased volatility if the sector struggles. 

In the last year, the fund has fallen 8.03%. 

QRE carries high sector and commodity risk, significant volatility, concentration exposure, liquidity and tracking risks. It can offer strong returns when resource markets rally, but moves sharply on weak demand or global slowdowns.

This fund might suit investors who believe there is upside in the Australian resources and mining sectors despite having a tough past year. 

Global X S&P Biotech ETF (ASX: CURE)

This fund seeks to invest in companies that potentially stand to benefit from further advances in the field of genomic science, such as companies involved in gene editing, genomic sequencing, genetic medicine/therapy, computational genomics, and biotechnology.

It is made up of roughly 124 holdings, with no individual company representing more than 3.3% of the fund. 

Being another specifically themed ETF, this fund can face volatility when the sector faces difficulties. 

The fund is down 9.73% over the past year. 

The fund may appeal to investors looking for exposure in the health care sector which is underrepresented here in Australia. 

Vaneck Vectors Global Clean Energy ETF (ASX: CLNE)

CLNE ETF gives investors a diversified portfolio of 30 of the largest and most liquid companies involved in clean energy production and associated technology and clean energy equipment globally.

The fund includes independent power producers & energy traders, utilities companies and electrical equipment companies. 

These companies are largely from the US (34.7% of the portfolio) and New Zealand (12.2%). 

Despite this ESG fund focussing on an environmentally positive theme, it has struggled to bring investors returns. 

Over the last 12 months the fund is down 3.56% in the last year, and more than 40% since 2021. 

However, as the world transitions toward renewables, CLNE ETF offers diversified access to companies essential to this shift. 

It may appeal to investors looking for diversified entry into this sector or investors interested in ESG strategies.

The post 3 ASX ETFs that could be good value right now appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

That's because ETFs give you the opportunity to invest in a large group of shares in one fell swoop, which can be a great way to build a diverse portfolio.

But which ETFs should you look at this month? Here are two popular ETFs that could be quality options right now:

BetaShares NASDAQ 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ)

The BetaShares NASDAQ 100 ETF could be worth considering in October. Particularly given its incredibly poor showing during September, which has left it trading around its lowest levels of the year.

This ETF provides investors with access to the top 100 non-financial shares on the famous NASDAQ stock exchange. This includes the likes of Alphabet, Amazon, Apple, Meta, Microsoft, Netflix, Nvidia, and Tesla.

BetaShares also highlights that with a strong focus on technology, the ETF provides investors with diversified exposure to a high-growth potential sector that is under-represented on the Australian share market.

ETFS S&P Biotech ETF (ASX: CURE)

Another ETF for investors to consider in October is the ETFS S&P Biotech ETF.

This ETF gives investors exposure to the U.S. biotechnology sector. ETFS notes that these are companies that are engaged in the research, development and manufacturing of products based on genetic analysis and genetic engineering. This includes the development of immunotherapy treatments and vaccines to treat human diseases.

Among its holdings you will find the likes of ChemoCentryx, Global Blood Therapeutics, and Twist Bioscience.

A big fan of the ETF is Felicity Thomas from Shaw & Partners. She recently told Livewire:

I like to buy ETFs for the long term. We have an ageing population, and what's the most important thing in the world? Your health. Biotech, healthcare, and life sciences, that's where you want to be invested over the next couple of decades.

The post 2 top ETFs for ASX investors to buy in October appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

But which ones could be buys? Two that have been tipped as buys by analysts are listed below. Here's what they are saying about them:

ETFS Battery Tech & Lithium ETF (ASX: ACDC)

If you're wanting to get some exposure to the decarbonisation megatrend, then the ETFS Battery Tech & Lithium ETF could be one way to do it.

This popular ETF allows investors to buy a slice of companies involved in battery technology, electric vehicles, and lithium mining. This includes BYD, Mineral Resources Limited (ASX: MIN), Pilbara Minerals Ltd (ASX: PLS), Nissan, and Renault.

Jessica Amir from Saxo Markets is positive on the ETF. Especially for investors that aren't keen on stock picking in the lithium sector. She commented:

If stock picking is not for you, and if you believe, like we do, that the electric vehicle industry and the critical minerals/ commodities will continue to see rising demand, and policy support, and also benefit from the world striving to be carbon neutral by 2050, then you could invest or trade in Global X Lithium & Battery Tech ETF (LIT) or ETFS Battery Tech & Lithium ETF (ACDC) that invests in about 30 of the biggest EV and battery technology companies in the world.

ETFS S&P Biotech ETF (ASX: CURE)

Another ETF that has been tipped as a buy is the ETFS S&P Biotech ETF. As its name implies, this ETF gives investors access to U.S. healthcare biotechnology companies.

The fund manager notes that these companies are engaged in the research, development and manufacturing of products based on genetic analysis and genetic engineering. This includes the development of immunotherapy treatments and vaccines to treat human diseases.

Among its largest holdings are ChemoCentryx, Global Blood Therapeutics, and Twist Bioscience.

Felicity Thomas from Shaw & Partners is a fan of the ETF. She recently told Livewire:

I like to buy ETFs for the long term. We have an ageing population, and what's the most important thing in the world? Your health. Biotech, healthcare, and life sciences, that's where you want to be invested over the next couple of decades.

The post 2 exciting ETFs named as buys by experts appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.