A new report from VanEck has shed light on the sectors that may hold up in this current environment. 

Global energy fragility 

According to VanEck, The Middle East crisis has reinforced how fragile global energy security is, particularly given Iran's role in oil production and the Strait of Hormuz chokepoint. 

As a result, investors are wondering how best to position themselves for the turmoil.

VanEck said we may be moving from a short-lived shock to a conflict that could last months, disrupting crude oil and LNG supply and affecting the energy system's core infrastructure, transport, production, and refining.

We think gold, defence, commodities and quality are structurally positioned for this environment.

Gold still a safe-haven 

VanEck said gold is supported by central bank accumulation, fiscal deterioration and geopolitical uncertainty.

Since the crisis broke out, gold has risen back above US$5,200/oz on safe-haven demand, and we think it is expected to push further.

According to the report, the structural drivers for gold, central banks accumulating at the fastest pace since Bretton Woods, US fiscal deterioration and the slow unwinding of dollar hegemony were in place before the Middle East conflict. 

The Strait of Hormuz threat, if it materialises, introduces the prospect of an inflationary oil shock on top of an already uncertain rate environment. That combination, geopolitical uncertainty plus inflation risk, is an environment in which gold has historically performed best.

For investors looking to gain exposure to gold shares, options include: 

• Vaneck Gold Bullion ETF (ASX: NUGG)
• VanEck Vectors Gold Miners ETF (ASX: GDX) – gives investors instant access to 92 of the largest and most liquid global gold mining companies.

Defence 

VanEck also noted defence spending was already in a structural upcycle; the conflict has accelerated the long-term repricing of security.

In terms of defence, if investors think long-term yields are near their highs, they could consider layering in duration, at the same time, with short-term rates rising, the yields on floating rate exposures will increase as rates rise. In addition, US Treasuries offer a potential portfolio hedge against risk-off periods and periods of rising rates.

ASX ETFs to consider in this sector include: 

• Vaneck Global Defence Etf (ASX: DFND)
• Betashares Global Defence ETF – Beta Global Defence ETF (ASX: ARMR). 

More information on global defence ETFs can be found here.

Energy and quality 

Furthermore, demand for traditional energy has increased, and investors are once again turning to traditional resources as well as critical minerals for strategic portfolio exposures. 

In terms of quality investing: 

The uncertainty creates volatility and quality companies tend to do relatively well in these environments as investors seek companies with stronger balance sheets and stable earnings.

Real assets also tend to perform relatively well because they provide tangible, consistent cash flows and act as inflation hedges.

For investors seeking energy and quality focussed exposure: 

• VanEck Vectors Msci World Ex Australia Quality ETF (ASX: QUAL)
• VanEck Australian Resources ETF (ASX: MVR)

The post How to position your ASX portfolio in the current environment – Expert appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The ASX materials sector, which is dominated by the mega miners, is 2.3% higher, while the energy sector is down 3.5%.

The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is in recovery mode today, up 1%, after a surge in oil prices created a $90 billion rout yesterday.

While the war in Iran is dominating headlines, longer-term trends in our investment markets continue to play out.

One of them is a new commodities 'super cycle' that seems to be taking strong hold of our share market.

So, let's dig into the question posed in our headline today.

Is Australia now in a new mining boom?

Australia's last mining boom, from the early 2000s through to 2013, was primarily driven by China's rapid industrialisation.

This period saw a big increase in iron ore and coal prices, major investment in mining infrastructure, and a substantial lift in exports.

It appears we've now entered a new mining boom, but this one is not going to centre on iron ore, nor demand from just China.

This boom will centre on critical materials with industrial applications tied to electrification, power generation, and energy security.

Demand will come from many nations, underpinned by structural changes in the global economy that will take decades to play out.

Paul Wong and Jacob White from Sprott Asset Management name copper, uranium, lithium, rare earths, and silver as the commodities to watch.

In an article, Wong and White said:

[This is] a new kind of commodity supercycle.

The emerging bull market is not repeating past cycles, and is being driven by deglobalization, fiscal dominance and the global push for energy, infrastructure and strategic, domestic supply chains.

AMP Ltd (ASX: AMP) Head of Investment Strategy and Chief Economist, Shane Oliver, also says we are embarking on "a new super cycle in commodities".

In a recent article, Dr Oliver said:

… the commodity price slump from their 2008-2011 highs looks to be over with commodities embarking on a new super cycle bull market driven by constrained supply after low levels of investment and electrification and rising defence spending driving increased demand for metals.

This will benefit Australia's resource stocks.

Iron ore is likely to feature less this time around partly reflecting slowing urbanisation in China and its property slump.

Commodity prices and ASX mining shares

The price of gold, silver, copper, lithium, and many critical minerals skyrocketed last year amid rising demand and low supply.

This pushed up the prices and returns of scores of ASX mining shares, with materials the top sector of 2025, returning a staggering 36%.

Gold is part of this mining boom, but for different reasons. Gold is benefiting from central bank buying and safe-haven investor demand.

Wong and White added:

After years of shrinking representation in global portfolios, commodities and resource equities have broken out above multi-year trading ranges, an action that, in our view, marks the developing stages of the new commodity bull market.

Impact on ASX mining shares

The new mining boom is already playing out in the Australian share market.

The BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) share price is up 31% over 12 months and 12.2% in the YTD.

BHP shares recently soared to $59.39 apiece, their highest level in 140 years, and the miner is once again the market's largest company.

Many other ASX mining shares have also hit new records.

These include Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO) shares at $170.71 per share and Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) at $31.96 per share.

Take a look at the 12-month change in these ASX mining shares below.

Foolish Takeaway

Wong and White emphasise that this mining boom will not be broad-based, and targeted exposure is important.

They said:

Broad commodity exposure may lack focus on the critical materials currently leading this cycle.

Investors are increasingly focusing on companies tied directly to critical materials and structural demand trends.

As an example, Wong and White point out that copper miners are outperforming diversified miners.

We can see this by comparing the performance of Global X Copper Miners AUD ETF (ASX: WIRE), up 84% over 12 months, to diversified ETF BetaShares Australian Resources Sector ETF (ASX: QRE), up 42%, and VanEck Australian Resources ETF (ASX: MVR), up 48%.

Wong and White conclude:

We see considerable room for continued outperformance from select commodities and the associated equities. 

The post Australia's next great ASX mining boom: Are we already in it? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Zooming out even further, the AUD has rallied from its post-Covid low of US59.6¢ in April last year, to recently hit a three-year high of US70.5¢.

Why is the AUD gaining value?

In simple terms, the AUD is stronger against the USD mainly because Australian interest rates are rising while US rates are expected to fall. 

The RBA's rate hike, combined with anticipated Fed cuts, have widened the interest rate gap in Australia's favour, making the AUD more attractive to global investors. 

This is reinforced by strong commodity prices, risk-on global sentiment, and broad US dollar weakness, all of which support demand for the AUD.

A new report from Canaccord Genuity and Wilsons Advisory said the RBA is expected to raise the cash rate again later this year. 

The US Federal Reserve is still expected to cut rates multiple times.

What does this mean for ASX shares?

The report from Canaccord Genuity also highlighted what this divergence could mean for ASX shares. 

According to Greg Burke, Equity Strategist, the rising AUD creates a mix of headwinds and tailwinds for Australian equities. 

On one hand, a stronger local currency provides headwinds for the large number of ASX 200 companies that generate earnings overseas – currently ~40% of the index's profits – due to adverse currency translation effects. 

On the other hand, somewhat counterintuitively, periods of AUD strength have historically coincided with S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) outperformance.

Metals & mining the clear winner 

The report identified that the Materials sector has historically exhibited by far the strongest relationship with the AUD and the best performance during periods of AUD appreciation.

Mr Burke said this correlation does not imply causation. 

Rather, this relationship reflects that both the AUD and commodity prices (and consequently, miners) tend to move together, as they benefit from the same underlying macro forces. These include robust global growth, improved terms of trade, broadly positive investor sentiment and a weaker USD. 

When combined with tight supply dynamics and structural demand drivers for key commodities, these factors provide the necessary foundation for continued Materials sector outperformance.

How to target the sector

Some of Australia's largest companies by market capitalisation are metals and mining shares. 

In fact, ASX materials shares make up roughly 24% of the ASX 200. 

Some of the largest include: 

• BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP)
• Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO)
• Fortescue Ltd (ASX: FMG)

Alternatively, investors can get broad exposure to this sector with ASX ETFs.

Options include: 

• BetaShares S&P/ASX 200 Resources Sector ETF (ASX: QRE)
• VanEck Australian Resources ETF (ASX: MVR)
• SPDR S&P/ASX 200 Resources Fund (ASX: OZR)

The post Which ASX shares benefit from a stronger AUD? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Instead of picking individual shares, investors can use ASX ETFs to buy into sectors, thematics, or whole markets.

There is now $331 billion invested across 423 ETFs on the ASX today, according to Betashares data.

The Australian Securities Exchange has just released the full-year performance data for ASX ETFs in 2025.

Here, we highlight three ASX ETFs that delivered exceptional total returns last year.

Betashares Energy Transition Metals ETF (ASX: XMET)

XMET ETF delivered a return of 100.47% last year, as it capitalised on runaway commodity prices and mining stocks.

The XMET ETF tracks the Nasdaq Sprott Energy Transition Materials Select Index.

This ASX ETF invests in metal producers that are powering the global clean energy transition.

It has exposure to global producers of copper, lithium, nickel, cobalt, graphite, manganese, silver, and rare earth elements.

Many of these metals show up in our article on the 12 best-performing commodities of 2025.

Betashares explains the ETF's thesis:

The transition from fossil fuels to clean energy solutions is driving growth in a range of disruptive products and processes such as renewable energy generation, battery storage solutions, and electric vehicles, all of which are critically dependent on the select group of ETMs [Energy Transition Metals] that XMET provides exposure to.

Holdings include international shares like First Majestic Silver Corp and Ivanhoe Mines.

There are also Aussie shares like ASX lithium pure-play PLS Group (ASX: PLS) and Lynas Rare Earths Ltd (ASX: LYC).

XMET has net assets of $122 million and the management fee is 0.69%.

This ETF is changing hands for $17.81 per unit, down 3.2% on Friday.

Global X Defence Tech ETF (ASX: DTEC)

Over 2025, DTEC ETF returned 64% to investors as global defence spending ramped up amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

DTEC is a relatively new ETF launched in October 2024. It doesn't yet pay dividends, so that 64% return was all capital growth.

ASX DTEC invests in 37 shares and seeks to track the Global X Defense Tech Index before fees.

The ETF's holdings include Lockheed Martin Corp, Rheinmetall AG, RTX Corp, and Palantir Technologies Inc.

The annual management fee is 0.5% and the ETF manages $133 million in funds.

DTEC is $19.51 per unit today, down 0.46%.

VanEck Australian Resources ETF (ASX: MVR)

MVR ETF was the best-performing ETF holding Aussie shares in 2025, returning 40.53%.

MVR seeks to track the performance of the MVIS Australia Resources Index.

Of course, this ETF invests in major mining companies like Fortescue Ltd (ASX: FMG), Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO), and Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST). But it goes beyond that.

MVR also invests in major energy players like Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) and Santos Ltd (ASX: STO).

It also has positions in companies that provide services to the mining sector, like engineering services providers Monadelphous Group Ltd (ASX: MND) and Worley Ltd (ASX: WOR), and railway freight services provider, Aurizon Holdings Ltd (ASX: AZJ).

This ETF has $585.6 million in net assets. The management fee is 0.35%.

MVR ETF is trading for $48.56 apiece, up 0.27% on Friday.

The post 3 ASX ETFs that returned 40% to 100% in 2025 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The gold price is up 0.5% to US$4,958 per ounce, a new record, at the time of writing.

ASX gold shares and ASX gold ETFs are going nuts on Friday.

Get this: the S&P/ASX All Ords Gold Index (ASX: XGD) soared 1,322 points higher to a record 21,612.2 points this morning.

That equates to a staggering 6.5% gain in one day. By comparison, the S&P/ASX All Ordinaries Index (ASX: XAO) is up 0.34%.

The screaming gold price continues to defy expectations.

Just three months ago, top broker Goldman Sachs predicted that gold would rise to US$4,900 per ounce by the end of 2026.

Well, that happened today, and it's only January.

The broker conducted a poll of institutional investors in November and found one in three expect gold to go above US$5,000 per ounce.

That seems increasingly likely.

The gold price is up by just under 15% in the year to date.

The market pushed the yellow metal 7% higher this past week alone after US President Donald Trump slapped a new 10% tariff on goods from eight European nations to punish their opposition to his aspirations to buy Greenland.

The gold price rocketed 65% in 2025, following a 27% gain in 2024, largely due to central banks diversifying away from the US dollar.

Let's see what ASX gold shares and ETFs are doing today.

Hold on to your hats… this is going to be fun.

ASX gold shares soar as gold price hits new record

Let's focus on the large-cap ASX gold shares first.

The Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) share price is up 6.23% to $27.81.

Northern Star shares dropped 8.1% yesterday after the miner disappointed the market with its December quarter report.

Northern Star's report, significant because it's the largest gold miner by market cap on the ASX, combined with news of lower unemployment in Australia, which raised the prospects of an interest rate hike this year, weighed on gold shares and ETFs yesterday.

The Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN) share price is up 6.59% to $15.04.

Newmont Corporation CDI (ASX: NEM) shares are up 4.64% to $179.90 apiece.

Among the mid-cap ASX gold shares, Ramelius Resources Ltd (ASX: RMS) shares are up 8.3% to $4.96.

The Greatland Resources Ltd (ASX: GGP) share price is up 9.81% to $14.22.

The Genesis Minerals Ltd (ASX: GMD) share price is $8.06, up 8.04%.

Perseus Mining Ltd (ASX: PRU) shares are up 6.6% to $6.46 apiece.

Westgold Resources Ltd (ASX: WGX) shares are up 6.67% to $7.76.

The Capricorn Metals Ltd (ASX: CMM) share price is up 4% to $15.47.

Vault Minerals Ltd (ASX: VAU) shares are up 4.76% to $5.94 apiece.

Regis Resources Ltd (ASX: RRL) shares are up 8.64% to $8.24.

How about ASX small-cap gold shares?

Among the small-cap ASX gold shares, Resolute Mining Ltd (ASX: RSG) shares are up 8.14% to $1.40.

The Pantoro Gold Ltd (ASX: PNR) share price is 5.83% higher at $5.45.

Meeka Metals Ltd (ASX: MEK) shares are up 3.57% to 29 cents.

Kingsgate Consolidated Ltd (ASX: KCN) shares are up 2.48% to $7.03 apiece.

The Golden Horse Minerals Ltd CDI (ASX: GHM) share price is 0.64% higher at 79 cents.

Black Cat Syndicate Ltd (ASX: BC8) shares are up 5.24% to $1.56.

(By the way, Warwick Grigor, an analyst at Far East Capital, offered some advice on how to select small-cap gold stocks to buy this week.)

What about ASX gold ETFs?

The Betashares Global Gold Miners Currency Hedged ETF (ASX: MNRS) streaked 4.87% to a record $18.94 per unit today.

MNRS was the best performer among the 423 ETFs on the Australian share market last year.

The VanEck Gold Miners AUD ETF (ASX: GDX) is up 4.54% to $157.45.

Perth Mint Gold (ASX: PMGOLD) is up 2.29% to $71.92 per unit.

Global X Physical Gold (ASX: GOLD) is up 2.63% to $66.27 per unit.

VanEck Australian Resources ETF (ASX: MVR), the No. 1 performer among ETFs holding ASX shares in 2025, is up 1.22% to $47.41.

The post ASX gold shares go crazy as gold price rips toward US$5,000 on Friday appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

That was a 75% increase on net inflows in 2024, according to Betashares data.

There is now $331 billion invested across 423 ETFs on the market.

There was a net increase of 56 ETFs launched on the ASX last year, with the three major issuers being Vanguard, Betashares, and iShares.

Aussies have fallen in love with ASX ETFs for their simplicity and low cost.

They provide great diversification, and are an easy vehicle for investing in international shares through the ASX.

The Australian Securities Exchange has just released the full-year performance data for ASX ETFs in 2025.

Here, we look at the six ETFs holding ASX shares that delivered the best total returns (that's capital growth plus dividends) for investors.

6 top ASX ETFs for total returns in 2025

Two key themes are evident in the top six ETFs of 2025.

They are rising commodities and ASX mining shares, and turbocharged growth for small-cap companies.

The ASX 200 materials sector was the top performer of 2025 due to fast-rising mining shares buoyed by stronger commodity values.

S&P/ASX 200 Materials (ASX: XMJ) returned 36.21% in 2025 compared to 10.32% for the benchmark S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO).

ASX small-cap shares also had a fantastic year due to interest rate cuts and staggering share price growth for junior gold miners.

The S&P/ASX Small Ords Index (ASX: XSO), which tracks companies ranked 101 to 300 by market cap, gave a total return of 24.96% last year compared to a 10.56% return for the S&P/ASX All Ords Index (ASX: XAO), which tracks the 500 largest companies on the market.

Let's take a look at those ETFs.

1. VanEck Australian Resources ETF (ASX: MVR)

The No. 1 ETF for total returns was the VanEck Australian Resources ETF.

MVR ETF delivered a total one-year return of 40.53%. The historical distribution yield is 2.57%.

The ETF closed at $45.96 per unit on Tuesday.

2. Betashares Australian Small Companies Select ETF (ASX: SMLL)

The SMLL ETF delivered a total one-year return of 36.39%. The historical distribution yield is 2.26%.

SMLL ETF closed at $4.92 per unit yesterday.

3. SPDR S&P/ASX 200 Resources ETF (ASX: OZR)

The OZR ETF delivered a total one-year return of 35.73%. The historical distribution yield is 2.62%.

The OZR ETF closed at $16.05 per unit yesterday.

4. Betashares Australian Resources Sector ETF (ASX: QRE)

The QRE ETF delivered a total one-year return of 35.42%. The historical distribution yield is 2.36%.

QRE ETF closed at $9.20 per unit yesterday.

Learn more about this ETF here.

5. Firetrail Aust Small Companies Fund — Active ETF (ASX: FSML)

This active ETF delivered a total one-year return of 35.2%. The historical distribution yield is 0.22%.

FSML ETF closed at $2.37 per unit yesterday.

6. Vanguard MSCI Australian Small Companies Index ETF (ASX: VSO)

VSO ETF delivered a total one-year return of 25.11%. The historical distribution yield is 6.75%.

The VSO closed at $80.01 per unit on Tuesday.

The post 6 best-performing ASX ETFs holding Aussie shares in 2025 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Throughout 2025, themes that brought big returns included gold, silver and other commodities. 

Similarly, global defence shares skyrocketed due to government spending and key contracts. 

For investors looking to gain access to these kinds of themes or sectors, ASX ETFs provide exposure to a group of similar stocks in one trade. 

With that in mind, here are three examples of such funds from VanEck that performed well in 2025. 

VanEck Investments Limited – VanEck Vectors Gold Miners ETF (ASX: GDX)

Gold shares emerged as one of the clear share market winners last year. 

This fund from VanEck was able to capture those gains. 

It is made up of a portfolio of 92 companies involved in the gold mining industry. 

These companies are mostly based in Canada (45%), United States (21%) and Australia (10%). 

This fund rose an astonishing 131% over the last 12 months. 

VanEck Australian Resources ETF (ASX: MVR)

This ASX ETF has been hotly covered in the past year as it captured the tailwinds in Australia's resources sector. 

As the name suggests, this fund offers exposure to 32 ASX-listed resources companies. 

According to VanEck, this includes companies focused on physical energy commodities (such as coal, oil, gas and uranium) related services and equipment (such as drilling, pipelines, storage and transportation), power generation and renewable energy. 

It also holds companies focused on mining and resources (such as iron ore, coal, precious metals and other minerals) and mining related services and equipment (such as drilling, explosives, transportation and producers of mining machinery).

This fund includes blue-chip companies like BHP Group (ASX: BHP), Fortescue Metals Group (ASX: FMG) and Rio Tinto Limited (ASX: RIO). 

It allows investors to access these big fish in one trade. 

Over the past year, this fund has risen more than 35%. 

VanEck Vectors Small Companies Masters ETF (ASX: MVS)

Another emerging story in 2025 was the impressive performance of ASX small-cap stocks. 

This fund captured that performance for investors, rising more than 20% in the last year. 

The fund is made up of 58 small-cap companies across a wide range of sectors including healthcare, industrials, resources, technology, energy and more. 

The post 3 of the best performing VanEck ASX ETFs in the last year appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

For example, the gold price has jumped by about 70% since early January to reach a new record high on Monday.

This powerful rally has also helped some of the leading ASX 200 gold miners to deliver outsized returns for their shareholders.

Take Newmont Corporation CDI (ASX: NEM) and Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN).

Shares in both companies are up by more than 160% so far this year.

But gold isn't the only metal breaking new ground.

Silver and copper pushed to record highs at the start of this week, whilst lithium has also posted strong gains in recent months.

Such favourable pricing environments help boost the earnings prospects of mining companies and drive strength across the sector.

And broadly speaking, mining stocks have enjoyed a powerful and wide-ranging rally in 2025.

The four exchange traded funds (ETFs) presented below help paint a picture of how strong this momentum has been.

In essence, each of the following mining-related ETFs just hit a new record high.

VanEck Australian Resources ETF (ASX: MVR)

This ETF offers exposure to a portfolio of ASX mining and energy stocks operating across a wide range of commodities.

Its largest holdings include diversified mining titan BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) and iron ore giant Fortescue Ltd (ASX: FMG).

Today, shares in this ASX ETF reached their highest level since the fund's inception in 2013.

They have now risen by 37% since the start of the year, changing hands at $43.83 per share at the time of writing.

VanEck Gold Miners AUD ETF (ASX: GDX)

Founded in 2015, this ASX ETF provides exposure to the world's largest gold miners, mostly located outside Australia.

However, it holds positions in some renowned ASX 200 gold producers such as Newmont and Evolution.

Shares in this ETF hit an all-time peak in today's session, reaching as high as $138.63 per share.

They are now up by 150% since the start of the year.

Betashares Energy Transition Metals ETF (ASX: XMET)

This ETF offers exposure to a portfolio of global companies producing metals for the world's energy transition.

In a nutshell, the push to reduce carbon emissions has seen the mining industry tasked with delivering the critical metals for a cleaner world.

So, metals such as lithium, rare earths, silver, and copper are taking on an increasingly important role.

Today, shares in this ASX ETF also reached their highest level since the fund's inception in 2022.

They have now risen by 98% in 2025, climbing to $14.68 each at the time of writing.

Global X Copper Miners AUD ETF (ASX: WIRE)

This ASX ETF has been providing access to the world's leading copper miners since its founding in late 2022.

Copper boasts widespread industrial applications.

It is also becoming growingly significant in AI data centres, as well as electric vehicles and associated infrastructure.

Shares in this ETF also reached a new all-time high in today's session.

All up, they have now soared by 75% since the start of January.

The post From gold to copper and lithium: Mining stocks are on a tear and these 4 ASX ETFs tell the story appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

For beginner investors, ASX ETFs can offer a way to enter the market with instant diversification.

It can also be a set and forget option, to avoid ongoing portfolio management. 

For experienced investors, new funds are constantly entering the market that can offer more specific focus through thematic investing. 

This year has seen plenty of new funds hit the market with more niche exposure. 

Another benefit of ASX ETFs is the prospect of strong returns. 

These three funds managed by VanEck have brought bigger returns than traditional indexes like S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) in the last year. 

Vaneck Vectors Global Clean Energy ETF (ASX: CLNE)

This ASX ETF is made up of 30 of the largest and most liquid companies involved in clean energy production and associated technology and clean energy equipment globally.

It falls into the category of ESG investing.

ESG is a growing theme amongst investors focussed on positively impacting the world through their investment choices.

According to VanEck, the fund targets business activities including but 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

In the last 12 months, the fund has risen 43.76%. 

That means a hypothetical investment of $10,000 made a year ago would today be worth approximately $14,376 today. 

VanEck Msci International Value ETF (ASX: VLUE)

This ASX ETF is made up of 250 international developed market large and mid-cap companies, with high value scores as calculated by: 

• price to book value
• price to forward earnings
• enterprise value to cash flow from operations.

Essentially, this fund targets companies in developed markets that are trading at attractive valuations relative to their fundamentals.

Its largest weighting by country is to the United States (44.8%) followed by Japan (22.5%). 

This strategy has clearly worked in the last year, as this ASX ETF has risen 27.20% in the last 12 months. 

This means a hypothetical investment of $10,000 made a year ago would today be worth $12,720 today. 

VanEck Australian Resources ETF (ASX: MVR)

This ASX ETF provides a portfolio of ASX-listed resources companies.

It's no surprise this fund has performed well. 

The S&P/ASX 200 Resources (ASX:XJR) index is up 27% this year. 

At the time of writing, it is made up of 31 holdings. 

This includes some of Australia's largest resource companies such as BHP Group (ASX: BHP) and Fortescue Metals Group (ASX: FMG). 

In the last 12 months, the fund has risen by 36.74%. 

This means an original investment of $10,000 made a year ago would today be worth $13,674. 

The post Guess how much $10,000 invested in these VanEck ASX ETFs a year ago is worth today? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Despite last week's broad sell-off, there remain many ASX-focused ETFs that have brought big returns this year.

As the calendar year nears its end, let's look at the sectors or strategies that have paid off in 2025. 

VanEck Australian Resources ETF (ASX: MVR)

Australian resources have returned to form in 2025. 

MVR gives investors exposure to a diversified portfolio of ASX-listed resources companies. 

At the time of writing, the ASX ETF has 31 underlying holdings.

This includes blue-chip companies like BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP), Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO), and Woodside Petroleum Ltd (ASX: WDS). 

This fund's exposure to gold shares has also influenced its strong performance. 

Since the start of the year, it has risen 28.5%. 

BetaShares Australian Small Companies Select Fund (ASX: SMLL)

This ASX ETF offers a portfolio of ASX-listed companies that are generally within the 91-350 largest by free float market capitalisation. 

SMLL's index uses screens that aim to identify companies with positive earnings and a strong ability to service debt. 

Relative valuation metrics, price momentum, and liquidity are also evaluated as part of the selection process.

At the time of writing, it comprises 66 holdings, with no individual company accounting for more than 5.1%. 

Its largest exposure by sector is to: 

• Materials (27.2%)
• Consumer discretionary (25.1%)
• Industrials (12.7%)

This ASX ETF is up 25.6% year to date. 

VanEck Vectors Australian Property ETF (ASX: MVA)

Real estate stocks and REITs have broadly performed well this year as the Australian property market has continued to grow. 

Exposure to these kinds of holdings can be a foot in the door for investors looking for exposure to the sector, without having the cash to buy physical brick-and-mortar properties. 

The MVA ETF gives investors exposure to a diversified portfolio of Australian REITs.

MVA holds a minimum of 10 Australian REITs, with a maximum weighting of 10% for each REIT.  

At the time of writing, the fund has 13 holdings, with exposure ranging from 3%-10%. 

The fund has risen 15% year to date. 

It also offers a 4% yield.

The post Which Aussie-focused ASX ETFs have performed the best in 2025 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Anna Wu, Senior Associate, Cross-Asset Investment Research at VanEck, said looking ahead, there are several signs that suggest this momentum could continue.

Macro environment turned increasingly supportive

According to the report, resource companies are typically pro-cyclical. 

This means historically, they outperform the broader market in an environment of stronger growth and rising commodity demand. 

In Australia, improving GDP growth outlook alongside recovering imports from China could be good news for the sector. 

Critical mineral miners, including producers of rare earths, uranium, and copper, could see further upside. This comes as the global economy is navigating a chapter of renewed protectionism.

Ms Wu also said gold miners have continued to benefit from margin expansion. This has been driven by rising gold prices and a bullish demand outlook for the commodity.

Compelling valuations

According to the report, resource and mining stocks may still offer value. 

Australian resources are currently trading at more reasonable levels relative to their historical levels and are offering more attractive valuations than the S&P/ASX 200, meaning greater potential upside if the current resources rally continues.

Two stocks that the ASX ETF provider has continued optimism on are Lynas Rare Earths Ltd (ASX: LYC) and Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN). 

The team at VanEck is bullish on Lynas. This is despite the stock already rocketing 88.65% in the last 6 months. 

The stock has benefited from US-China trade tensions as demand for non-Chinese rare earths has surged.  

With analysts forecasting revenue to return to pre-COVID highs by early 2026, VanEck remains bullish on Lynas' outlook, viewing persistent geopolitical risks as a continued tailwind for the company.

Evolution Mining has surged 144.01% higher in 2025 on the back of record gold prices. 

With gold miners still trading at discounts to the spot price of gold and macro drivers likely to remain supportive, the risk-reward continues to skew favourably. Over the coming months, we see further upside potential in gold, as well as quality producers such as Evolution Mining, which have reasonable scale, balance sheet strength, and leverage to sustained pricing.

How to gain exposure to mining stocks?

For investors looking to gain broader exposure to mining and resource stocks, there are ASX ETFs to consider: 

• VanEck Australian Resources ETF (ASX: MVR) – provides overweight exposure to mid and small-cap miners. 
• SPDR S&P/ASX 200 Resources Fund (ASX: OZR) – seeks to closely track, before fees and expenses, the returns of the S&P/ASX 200 Resources Index (ASX: XJR).
• BetaShares S&P/ASX 200 Resources Sector ETF (ASX: QRE) – tracks large ASX-listed resources companies. 

These provide a diversified combination of mining and resource shares and may suit investors looking to gain exposure to this sector without choosing individual stocks.

The post Why mining stocks can keep rallying: Expert appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Yesterday, markets reacted strongly to a deal struck by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese with US President Donald Trump. 

The Motley Fool's Bernd Struben reported the surge for ASX rare earths stocks following a US-Australia deal to bolster rare earths and critical mineral supplies amidst US-China trade tensions.

The deal will give the US greater access to Australia's rare earths and other critical minerals amid growing trade tensions with China.

According to Albanese (quoted by Bloomberg), the deal represents a US$8.5 billion "pipeline that we have ready to go".

What are rare earths stocks?

Rare earths stocks are companies that explore, mine, or process rare earths elements (REEs) – a group of metals vital for technologies like electric vehicles, wind turbines, smartphones, and military systems. 

On the ASX, known rare earths companies include: 

• Lynas Rare Earths (ASX: LYC) – Australia's largest rare earths producer, operates the Mount Weld mine (WA) and a refinery in Malaysia, expanding processing in WA.
• Arafura Rare Earths (ASX: ARU) – Developing the Nolans Project (NT), focused on neodymium and praseodymium for EV motors.
• Iluka Resources (ASX: ILU) – Traditionally a mineral sands producer, now building Australia's first integrated rare earths refinery at Eneabba (WA).
• Hastings Technology Metals (ASX: HAS) – Developing the Yangibana Project (WA), rich in NdPr (magnet materials).
• Australian Strategic Materials (ASX: ASM) – Developing the Dubbo Project (NSW), producing rare earths along with zirconium and niobium.

The United States has committed to increasing investment and strategic support for several Australian rare earths and critical minerals companies, as part of its broader effort to reduce dependence on China for the supply of these key materials.

This investment may spark interest for Aussies to gain exposure to this market.

How do investors gain exposure?

Many of these rare earths stocks are penny stocks, trading for under $1. This can lead to volatility and uncertainty regarding long-term success.

For investors seeking lower risk, investing in ASX ETFs that hold exposure to some of these companies, along with blue-chip stocks, can offer greater stability. 

While there are no ASX ETFs that focus solely on rare earths, there are two that do include some exposure. 

The first is VanEck Australian Resources ETF (ASX: MVR). 

MVR gives investors exposure to a diversified portfolio of ASX-listed resources companies. 

At the time of writing, there are 31 holdings in the fund, including 2 rare earths companies: 

• Lynas Rare Earths Ltd (ASX: LYC) – Approximately 5.8% weighting.
• Iluka Resources Ltd (ASX: ILU) – Approximately 1.18% weighting. 

It also holds blue-chip companies like Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO) and BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP). 

Another option with a similar profile is SPDR S&P/ASX 200 Resources Fund (ASX: OZR). 

It also provides exposure to the resources sector with 49 underlying holdings. 

This also includes a 2.8% weighting towards Lynas and a 0.55% weighting towards Iluka. 

The post Invest in this ASX ETF for rare earths stock exposure appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

These include financials, healthcare, information technology, and the mining-heavy materials sector.

And in the past six months, the materials sector has been the standout performer on the ASX with a 28% jump.

For context, the broader market has also rallied handsomely with the All Ordinaries Index (ASX: XAO) rising by about 16% during the same period.

So, it appears that mining stocks have played a significant role in pushing the All Ords higher.

But there's more.

Diving into five ASX exchange traded funds (ETFs) presents a picture of just how powerful and wide-ranging the mining rally has been.

In essence, mining stocks have been skyrocketing and each of these mining-related ETFs has been breaking records.

VanEck Australian Resources ETF (ASX: MVR)

This ETF provides exposure to a diverse portfolio of ASX mining stocks operating across a wide array of commodities.

For example, its three largest holdings are diversified mining giant BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP), leading gold producer Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST), and iron ore powerhouse Fortescue Ltd (ASX: FMG).

So, the fund offers a broad insight into leading mining stocks listed in Australia.

And last week, shares in this ASX ETF reached their highest level since the fund's inception in 2013.

They have now risen by about 34% in the past six months to $41.41 per share at Friday's close.

VanEck Gold Miners AUD ETF (ASX: GDX)

Precious metals have been surging throughout 2025.

For instance, the gold price has lifted by about 62% since the start of the year to more than US$4,200 per ounce, setting several records along the way.

And this VanEck gold miners ETF has been riding the wave.

Founded in 2015, it offers exposure to the world's largest gold miners – mostly outside of Australia.

However, it holds positions in some ASX stalwarts such as Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN).

Last week, shares in this ETF rocketed to all-time highs.

They are now up by 58% in the past six months, ending Friday at $131.44 per share.

Betashares Energy Transition Metals ETF (ASX: XMET)

In recent years, one of the most important narratives in mining has been the global energy transition.

Here, the world's push to reduce carbon emissions has seen the mining industry tasked with producing the critical metals needed for a cleaner world.

Metals such as lithium, rare earths, silver, and copper have come to the fore due to their role in new-age technologies like electric vehicles, solar panels, and wind turbines.

And this ETF provides exposure to a portfolio of global companies producing energy transition metals.

Last week, shares in this ASX ETF reached their highest level since the fund's inception in 2022.

They are now up by 86% in just six months, closing out Friday at $13.17 apiece.

Global X Copper Miners AUD ETF (ASX: WIRE)

Copper's widespread industrial applications make it a cornerstone of the global economy.

In addition, the metal's significance has been growing further due to its use in electric vehicles and associated infrastructure.

And this ASX ETF has been providing access to a basket of the world's leading copper miners since its founding in late 2022.

Shares in this fund also reached a record high during last week's trading.

They have now soared by 65% in the past six months to end of last week at $19.14 per share.

Betashares Global Uranium ETF (ASX: URNM)

Shares in this ASX ETF also broke records last week.

The fund provides exposure to the world's leading uranium mining, processing, and holding companies.

In essence, uranium is playing a critical role in the world's energy transition.

It is the fuel that powers nuclear power plants.

And nuclear energy is one of the cleanest sources of electricity due to its minimal carbon footprint.

Shares in this ASX ETF ended last week at $11.73 apiece, up by 96% in only six months.

As a sidenote, it warrants mentioning that uranium stocks on the ASX are technically classified in the energy sector, as opposed to materials.

The bottom line

There's little doubt that mining stocks have staged an impressive rally in recent months.

From gold and copper to rare earths, silver, uranium, and lithium; miners across the commodity spectrum have been surging higher.

But, it remains to be seen if this momentum can be sustained throughout the rest of the year and into 2026.

The post From gold to rare earths, mining stocks are booming and these 5 record-breaking ASX ETFs prove it appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Global presence

Sometimes, as investors, we tend to overcomplicate things. 

While past performance doesn't guarantee future results, it's still important to recognise the influence and importance resources and mining companies have on portfolios.

In fact, over the last 10 years (from the end of 2015), the S&P/ASX 200 Resources Index (ASX: XJR) has risen roughly 170%. 

There's a reason investors continue to put money into known blue-chip companies like BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP), Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO), etc. 

These are not just some of the largest companies in Australia, but also among the largest in the world.

So if you are looking for a more focused investment in this sector, here are two ASX ETFs to consider that have brought 10% to 12% annualised returns over the last 10 years. 

BetaShares S&P/ASX 200 Resources Sector ETF (ASX: QRE)

The QRE ETF aims to track the performance of an index (before fees and expenses) comprising the largest ASX-listed companies in the resources sector. 

At the time of writing, it has 44 holdings in the fund. 

It is largely focused towards BHP, with a 33% weighting. Its next largest exposure to any holding is 7% (Rio Tinto). 

Largest exposure by sector allocation: 

• Diversified Metals & Mining (52.8%)
• Gold (16.9%)
• Oil & Gas Exploration & Production (14.1%)
• Steel (6.1%)
• Electric Utilities (3.9%)

This year, it has risen an impressive 19.85%. 

According to Betashares, the fund has returned 12% per annum over the last 10 years.

VanEck Australian Resources ETF (ASX: MVR)

MVR gives investors exposure to a diversified portfolio of ASX-listed resources companies with a market cap exceeding US$150 million. 

It is made up of 31 holdings, with a much more balanced profile compared to the Betashares fund discussed above. 

Its largest weighting by company: 

• BHP (7.68%)
• Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) (6.86%)
• Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) (6.71%)
• Fortescue Metals Group Ltd (ASX: FMG) (6.69%)
• Rio Tinto (6.55%)

According to VanEck, this ASX ETF has provided an annualised return of 10.13% over the last 10 years. 

The post Can investors really lock in 10% to 12% annual returns with these mining ASX ETFs? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Investors in the VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat (AUD Hedged) ETF (ASX: MHOT) will receive the largest payment of $10.99 per unit.

Those who hold the unhedged VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat ETF (ASX: MOAT) will get the second-highest distribution of $7.56 per unit.

These two ETFs are different in that they do not try to mirror the performance of a major index like the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO).

Instead, the MOAT ETFs track about 50 US shares that have significant competitive advantages, or in other words, a wide 'moat'.

The wider the moat, the more protected a company's brand and its products or services are from competitors in the marketplace.

Here is a summary of VanEck ETFs that will be paying dividends to investors today.

It's payday for VanEck ASX ETF investors!

VanEck Global Clean Energy ETF (ASX: CLNE) will pay 7 cents per unit.

VanEck FTSE China A50 ETF (ASX: CETF) will pay $1.27 per unit.

VanEck Global Defence ETF (ASX: DFND) will pay 3 cents per unit. Find out more about this ETF here.

VanEck Morningstar Australian Moat Income ETF (ASX: DVDY) will pay 20 cents per unit.

VanEck MSCI International Sustainable Equity ETF (ASX: ESGI) will pay $2.34 per unit.

VanEck Video Gaming and Esports ETF (ASX: ESPO) will pay $1.04 per unit.

VanEck Gold Miners ETF (ASX: GDX) will pay 63 cents per unit.

VanEck Morningstar International Wide Moat ETF (ASX: GOAT) will pay $1.66 per unit.

VanEck MSCI Australian Sustainable Equity ETF (ASX: GRNV) will pay 57 cents per unit.

VanEck 5-10 Year Australian Government Bond ETF (ASX: 5GOV) will pay 11.5 cents per unit.

VanEck Global Healthcare Leaders ETF (ASX: HLTH) will pay 2 cents per unit.

Here are a few more…

VanEck Australian Property ETF (ASX: MVA) will pay 42 cents per unit.

VanEck Australian Banks ETF (ASX: MVB) will pay 40 cents per unit.

VanEck Australian Resources ETF (ASX: MVR) will pay 51 cents per unit.

VanEck Small Companies Masters ETF (ASX: MVS) will pay 32 cents per unit.

VanEck MSCI International Small Companies Quality ETF (ASX: QSML) will pay 9 cents per unit.

VanEck MSCI International Quality ETF (ASX: QUAL) will pay $1.23 per unit.

VanEck MSCI International Value ETF (ASX: VLUE) will pay $1.02 per unit.

VanEck ETFs among the market's top performers in FY25

According to ASX data, there were two VanEck ETFs among the six best-performing ETFs holding Aussie shares in FY25.

Ranked 4th, the VanEck Australian Banks ETF delivered a total annual return of 24.86%.

Ranked 6th, the VanEck Australian Property ETF produced a total annual return of 22.92%.

Another two VanEck ETFs featured in the six best-performing ETFs holding international shares in FY25.

Check them out here.

The post Invested in ASX MOAT or other VanEck ETFs? It's dividend day! appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The ex-dividend date for the distributions listed below is today, 1 July. The record date is 2 July.

The payment date is 25 July.

The biggest payment amount on the VanEck distribution list is a whopper at $10.99 per unit.

That will be paid to investors who own VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat (AUD Hedged) ETF (ASX: MHOT).

Investors in the unhedged version, the VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat ETF (ASX: MOAT), will receive the second-highest distribution of $7.56 per unit.

The VanEck Wide Moat ETFs are a bit different to the norm. They do not seek to track the performance of a major index, like most ETFs.

Instead, the ETFs hold a portfolio of about 50 US shares that have significant competitive advantages, or in other words, a wide moat.

Here is a condensed list of VanEck ETFs and how much each ETF will pay in dividends to their investors later this month.

Payday for VanEck ASX ETF investors

VanEck Global Clean Energy ETF (ASX: CLNE) will pay 7 cents per unit.

VanEck FTSE China A50 ETF (ASX: CETF) will pay $1.27 per unit.

VanEck Global Defence ETF (ASX: DFND) will pay 3 cents per unit. Learn more about this ETF here.

VanEck Morningstar Australian Moat Income ETF (ASX: DVDY) will pay 20 cents per unit.

VanEck MSCI International Sustainable Equity ETF (ASX: ESGI) will pay $2.34 per unit.

VanEck Video Gaming and Esports ETF (ASX: ESPO) will pay $1.04 per unit.

VanEck Gold Miners ETF (ASX: GDX) will pay 63 cents per unit.

VanEck Morningstar International Wide Moat ETF (ASX: GOAT) will pay $1.66 per unit.

VanEck MSCI Australian Sustainable Equity ETF (ASX: GRNV) will pay 57 cents per unit.

VanEck 5-10 Year Australian Government Bond ETF (ASX: 5GOV) will pay 11.5 cents per unit.

VanEck Global Healthcare Leaders ETF (ASX: HLTH) will pay 2 cents per unit.

Show us the money! Here are some more…

VanEck Australian Property ETF (ASX: MVA) will pay 42 cents per unit.

VanEck Australian Banks ETF (ASX: MVB) will pay 40 cents per unit.

VanEck Australian Resources ETF (ASX: MVR) will pay 51 cents per unit.

VanEck Small Companies Masters ETF (ASX: MVS) will pay 32 cents per unit.

VanEck MSCI International Small Companies Quality ETF (ASX: QSML) will pay 9 cents per unit.

VanEck MSCI International Quality ETF (ASX: QUAL) will pay $1.23 per unit.

VanEck MSCI International Value ETF (ASX: VLUE) will pay $1.02 per unit.

The post VanEck ASX ETF dividends: How much you'll get and when appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.