That's the cheeky catch with ETF investing: more tickers don't necessarily mean more diversification.

Are your ETFs secretly doing the same thing?

It's surprisingly easy to build an ASX ETF portfolio that looks diversified on paper but is anything but.

Investors might own Betashares Australia 200 ETF (ASX: A200), for example, alongside another Australian broad-market ETF like iShares Core S&P/ASX 200 ETF (ASX: IOZ) without realising just how much their holdings overlap.

The same problem is arguably even more obvious in US-focused ETFs. An investor might own iShares S&P 500 ETF (ASX: IVV) alongside a Nasdaq-focused ETF such as Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ).

At first glance, these look like different investments. But there's plenty of crossover, particularly among the US technology giants that dominate both indices. That means investors could be doubling down on the same companies without necessarily realising it.

When doubling up can make sense

There are, however, legitimate reasons to hold overlapping ASX ETFs.

Capital gains tax can be a big one. An investor sitting on a substantial unrealised gain may not want to sell an older ETF simply to switch into a cheaper or more suitable alternative.

Instead, they could leave the existing holding untouched and direct future contributions towards their preferred ETF. That's a perfectly reasonable strategy, depending on an investor's circumstances.

The problem arises when investors keep buying overlapping ETFs simply because each one sounds like a useful addition.

Keep the ETF core simple

One way to think about ETFs is to treat them as core portfolio holdings.

That doesn't mean investors can only own a handful of funds. But the core should ideally be straightforward enough that you know exactly what you're buying.

For example, an investor might have one ASX ETF providing exposure to Australian shares, another covering the S&P 500 and another providing broader international exposure.

Satellite investments can then be added around those core holdings, potentially covering areas such as bonds, fixed interest or specialised sectors.

The important thing is knowing what each ETF actually adds.

The diversification illusion

The danger of ETF overlap isn't just paying extra fees. It can also create a false sense of diversification.

You might own five or six ASX ETFs and feel wonderfully diversified, only to discover that many of them hold the same mega-cap companies.

That concentration can become painfully obvious when markets turn bearish and several supposedly different ETFs fall together.

For investors, the lesson is simple: don't count ETFs. Count the underlying exposures. A smaller portfolio of complementary ETFs can provide better diversification than a sprawling collection of funds that all own the same stocks.

After all, the goal isn't to collect ETFs. It's to build a portfolio that actually does what you think it does.

The post Too many ASX ETFs? You could be paying twice for the same shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

This has extended the exceptional growth of the BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ). 

The results roll on 

According to the report, most companies within the Nasdaq 100 Index (NDX) have reported earnings for Q2 2026 and, despite recent macroeconomic uncertainty from tariffs and the Middle East War, the results continue to deliver, with the index on track to deliver a blended year-over-year growth rate of approximately 75.1%.

This is significantly higher than the consensus forecast growth rate of 28.9%, supported by stronger-than-expected earnings, driven by significant contributions from Amazon.com Inc (NASDAQ: AMZN) and Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ: GOOGL), which reported large unrealised gains from their Anthropic holdings.

Given this result, the Nasdaq 100 is on pace to deliver its 13th straight quarter of double-digit year-over-year earnings growth.

Winners a plenty 

Betashares highlighted that semiconductors have been the primary driver of this growth, with GPU (graphics processing unit), memory and custom chip makers as key beneficiaries of the data centre infrastructure build-out; however, the Magnificent Seven companies (many of which are hyperscalers) remain key contributors to headline performance given their larger weights within the index.

Overall results were solid, led by cloud revenue growth across Google Cloud Platform, Amazon Web Services and Microsoft Azure. Together, these cloud business units are growing revenues by a rate of 43% on a US$3645 billion trailing twelve-month revenue base in Q2, representing an extraordinary rate of growth which will likely continue.

That's because enterprise AI adoption will likely continue its acceleration, as increasingly multi-step agentic AI workloads drive sustained growth in inference demand. Demand for AI compute continues to exceed available supply across, while rapidly growing contracted backlogs provide high visibility into future revenues.

Betashares said that together, persistent demand and capacity constraints suggest that much of the incremental infrastructure being deployed can be absorbed and monetised quickly as it comes online, supporting continued elevated cloud growth.

ASX ETF overview 

These tailwinds have continued to push the NDQ ASX ETF higher in recent months. 

Year to date, the fund is up over 9%. 

This has significantly outpaced the market here in Australia. 

During the same span, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is up just over 5%. 

Looking at the last 12 months, the NDQ fund is up 14% compared to the ASX 200's 4%. 

Over the last 5 years, the fund is up 87%.

The NDQ fund aims to track the performance of the Nasdaq 100 Index (before fees and expenses). 

The Nasdaq 100 comprises 100 of the largest non-financial companies listed on the Nasdaq market. The fund includes many companies that are at the forefront of the new economy.

It could be an ideal investment for Australian investors looking for portfolio diversification beyond Australia. It also offers greater exposure to the technology and growth sectors.

The post Why this NASDAQ-focused ASX ETF keeps outperforming appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

If you have $500 available, it could be worth considering one of these ASX exchange traded funds (ETFs).

Each gives investors a different way to put money to work without having to pick individual shares.

iShares S&P 500 ETF (ASX: IVV)

The iShares S&P 500 ETF could be a strong option for investors wanting broad exposure to the United States.

This fund tracks the S&P 500 Index, which includes many of the largest listed companies in America.

That includes many of the biggest and best companies in the world, such as Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL) and Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA).

Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS)

Another ASX ETF to consider is the Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF. It could be worth a look if you want even broader global exposure.

This fund invests across developed markets, including the United States, Europe, Japan, Canada, and other major economies.

This can make it a good starting point for investors who want a simple global share portfolio without having to decide which overseas market will perform best.

Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS)

The Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF keeps things closer to home.

This fund gives investors exposure to a broad basket of Australian shares. This includes the banks, miners, healthcare companies, and retailers you hear about in the news or encounter in everyday life.

It is worth noting that the local market is not as diversified as global markets, but it still includes plenty of large, profitable businesses. This fund offers a simple way to own a slice of 300 of them.

Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ)

A fourth ASX ETF to consider is the hugely popular Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF.

It is a higher-growth option. It invests in 100 of the largest non-financial companies listed on the Nasdaq exchange.

These companies are linked to areas such as artificial intelligence, cloud computing, chips, software, digital advertising, streaming, ecommerce, and consumer technology.

This fund can be volatile, so it may not suit everyone. But investors with a long-term view could find it attractive because it offers exposure to some of the world's most influential growth companies.

Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF (ASX: ASIA)

Finally, the Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF could be a good option for investors wanting technology exposure outside the United States.

This fund invests in major Asian technology companies across areas such as semiconductors, hardware, ecommerce, gaming, and digital platforms.

It is a more concentrated option, so investors should expect ups and downs.

But if you want your $500 invested in a focused long-term technology theme, this ASX ETF could be worth a closer look.

The post 5 amazing ASX ETFs to buy with $500 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The hardest part is not the money, it is deciding what that first purchase should actually be.

Reporting season is in full swing, which makes the market feel unusually noisy for a first-time buyer.

However, the principles that have made ASX shares work over decades do not change because a few companies are reporting this month.

What $1,000 actually buys in ASX shares

Most CHESS-sponsored brokers require a minimum first order of $500 per security, which is known as the minimum marketable parcel.

In practice, that means one or two purchases with $1,000.

Individual share prices are important here too.

At around $178 a share, $1,000 buys you five Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) shares, which is a meaningful stake in one company and no diversification whatsoever.

Concentrating a first investment in a single stock is where a lot of new investors come unstuck.

There is a psychological benefit to starting small, too. A $1,000 position teaches you how you react to a 20% drawdown, and it does so while minimising losses.

One ETF, or a handful of ASX shares?

An exchange-traded fund (ETF) solves the diversification problem in a single trade.

The Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS) tracks the S&P/ASX 300 Index, so one $1,000 purchase gives you exposure to 300 companies.

Its management fee is 0.07% per annum, which is among the lowest on the ASX and works out at 70 cents a year on $1,000.

Alternatively, investors wanting global technology exposure often look at the Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ).

The ETF holds the 100 largest non-financial companies listed on the Nasdaq, although the fee is higher at 0.48% to reflect the more specialised exposure.

For reference, the local ETF industry closed the financial year at a record $372 billion in funds under management.

Watch the costs

Brokerage is the silent tax on small parcels.

A $10 fee on a $1,000 trade costs you 1% before you own anything, and paying it twice on a buy and a sell leaves you 2% behind.

Some platforms now offer zero or very low brokerage on ASX-listed products, while others charge a flat $5 to $20 per trade.

On a $1,000 starting balance, the difference can be material.

Fees compound in exactly the same way returns do, only against you.

Foolish takeaway

The first $1,000 you put into ASX shares will not make you wealthy.

What it does is start the compounding clock and teach you how you actually behave when prices fall.

Best practice: keep the costs low, avoid putting everything into one company, and plan to add regularly.

A single $1,000 purchase is a start, not a strategy.

Do it again next month, and the month after that, and the compounding takes care of the rest.

The post How to start investing in ASX shares with $1,000 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

With $3,000, it is possible to spread your money across different parts of the global share market using ASX exchange traded funds (ETFs).

With that in mind, here are three ASX ETFs that could be worth buying this month.

Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ)

One ASX ETF I would consider buying is the Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF.

This fund gives investors exposure to 100 of the largest non-financial companies listed on the Nasdaq exchange.

That includes businesses involved in artificial intelligence, cloud computing, semiconductors, software, digital advertising, streaming, ecommerce, and consumer technology.

This means it gives investors access to companies that are shaping how modern businesses and consumers operate.

The fund will likely be volatile at times, especially after strong periods for technology shares. But over the long term, owning a basket of major global growth companies could be a powerful way to put money to work in the share market.

Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF (ASX: ASIA)

The Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF could also be worth considering.

This fund gives investors exposure to large technology companies in Asia.

That makes it quite different from a Nasdaq-focused ETF. Asia is a major part of the global technology supply chain, with exposure to areas such as semiconductors, memory chips, hardware, ecommerce, gaming, and digital platforms.

It also gives investors a way to look beyond the United States for technology growth.

The fund is higher risk because it is concentrated in one region and one sector. Currency movements, regulation, geopolitics, and market sentiment can all affect returns.

But with a long-term view, a $1,000 investment in this ETF could give investors exposure to some of the companies helping build and serve the digital economy across Asia.

Betashares Global Cash Flow Kings ETF (ASX: CFLO)

A final ASX ETF to look at is the Betashares Global Cash Flow Kings ETF.

This fund takes a different approach from the first two. Rather than focusing on one region or one growth theme, it looks for global companies that generate strong free cash flow.

That is the money left over after a business has covered the costs required to operate and invest. Companies with strong free cash flow can have more flexibility to reinvest, pay dividends, buy back shares, reduce debt, or deal with tougher market conditions.

This gives the ETF a quality angle. It could help balance the higher-growth exposure from the Nasdaq and Asian technology funds with businesses that are being selected for financial strength.

It was recently recommended by the team at Betashares.

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

Instead of researching and buying individual companies, one investment can provide exposure to dozens, hundreds, or even thousands of shares.

That said, here are five ASX ETFs I think are worth considering in August if you are starting out.

Betashares Australia 200 ETF (ASX: A200)

The A200 ETF provides exposure to 200 of the largest companies listed on the Australian share market.

This includes businesses from banking, mining, healthcare, retail, telecommunications, and other major industries.

I think it offers beginners a straightforward way to invest in Australian shares without needing to decide which individual companies will perform best.

The fund also pays distributions, although both the income and unit price can rise or fall over time.

Betashares Global Shares ETF (ASX: BGBL)

Australia represents only a small part of the global share market.

The BGBL ETF allows investors to spread their money across more than 1,000 companies from developed countries outside Australia, including the United States, Japan, and major European markets.

This gives beginners access to industries that are less prominent on the ASX, particularly global technology, healthcare, consumer brands, and industrial businesses.

I think the Betashares Global Shares ETF is a simple option for someone who wants broad international exposure rather than trying to select individual overseas shares.

Vanguard Diversified High Growth Index ETF (ASX: VDHG)

The VDHG ETF is designed for investors who want several types of investments bundled together.

The fund holds Australian shares, international shares, emerging market shares, and smaller companies. It also keeps a modest allocation to defensive investments such as bonds.

Vanguard manages the mix and regularly brings it back towards its target allocations.

I think that removes several decisions that can overwhelm a beginner. Investors still need to accept share market volatility, but they do not have to choose and manage several different funds themselves.

iShares S&P 500 ETF (ASX: IVV)

The IVV ETF follows the S&P 500 Index, which contains 500 leading US companies.

These businesses operate across technology, healthcare, financial services, consumer products, communications, and many other parts of the economy.

The fund can give beginners exposure to companies such as Apple, Microsoft, and NVIDIA through one ASX investment.

I think the strength and adaptability of major US businesses make the iShares S&P 500 ETF an attractive long-term option, although currency movements will affect returns for Australian investors.

Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ)

The NDQ ETF invests in 100 of the largest non-financial companies listed on the Nasdaq.

It has significant exposure to technology and businesses benefiting from cloud computing, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, software, and digital services.

I think the Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF could suit beginners seeking stronger growth potential who are comfortable with larger price swings.

The NDQ ETF is more concentrated than a broad global fund, so I would expect greater volatility when technology shares fall out of favour. Its higher growth potential comes with more risk.

Foolish takeaway

There is no single ETF that will suit every beginner. The A200 ETF offers broad Australian exposure, while the BGBL and IVV ETFs provide different routes into international markets. The VDHG ETF handles much of the diversification work within one investment, while the NDQ ETF provides a more growth-focused choice.

I think the best starting point is the fund an investor understands and feels comfortable holding.

Each of these ETFs offers a simple way to begin investing in August, but I think beginners should consider their goals, time horizon, and tolerance for volatility before buying.

The post 5 top ASX ETFs for beginner investors in August appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The real difference appears when those purchases continue for years, and the returns start earning returns of their own.

So, what could that monthly habit eventually become?

Building towards a 9% return

For this example, I will assume the portfolio earns an average return of 9% per annum, with dividends reinvested.

That figure is not guaranteed. Share market returns can vary significantly from year to year, and investors will experience falls along the way.

Still, I think 9% is a reasonable long-term target for a portfolio built around diversified exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and quality ASX shares.

I would consider making a broad fund such as the iShares S&P 500 ETF (ASX: IVV) a core holding. It gives investors access to hundreds of major US companies across technology, healthcare, financial services, consumer goods, and industrials.

The Vanguard Diversified High Growth Index ETF (ASX: VDHG) could provide an even broader foundation by spreading money across Australian shares, international markets, emerging economies, and a smaller allocation to defensive assets.

Investors comfortable with greater volatility could add the Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ), which places more weight on companies benefiting from artificial intelligence, cloud computing, semiconductors, software, and digital commerce.

Which ASX shares could help?

I would also consider selected ASX shares capable of growing earnings over many years.

Breville Group Ltd (ASX: BRG) has room to expand its premium appliance brands across international markets, while Goodman Group (ASX: GMG) is building data centre infrastructure in locations where land and power are difficult to secure.

Nextdc Ltd (ASX: NXT) offers another route into rising demand for computing capacity. Its facilities support cloud services, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and the increasing volume of data moving through the economy.

Cochlear Ltd (ASX: COH) could add healthcare exposure through a business serving people with hearing loss, while BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) provides access to iron ore, copper, potash, dividends, and the resources required for global development.

I would not expect every holding to return exactly 9%. The aim would be for the portfolio as a whole to reach that average over time.

What could the portfolio become?

With $500 invested at the end of every month and an average annual return of 9%, the portfolio could grow to approximately $95,000 after 10 years.

After 20 years, it could reach around $320,000.

The effect of compounding becomes much clearer from there. After 30 years, the balance could rise to approximately $860,000.

Continuing for 40 years could produce around $2.1 million, while 50 years could take the portfolio to roughly $5.1 million!

These estimates assume monthly compounding and exclude brokerage, fees, and tax.

The later figures look so much larger because the portfolio eventually contributes far more growth than the monthly deposits. Time allows each earlier investment to keep compounding while new money continues entering the market.

Foolish takeaway

Investing $500 a month in ASX shares could create a substantial portfolio, but the biggest results require patience.

I would build around diversified ETFs, add quality companies with clear growth opportunities, reinvest the income, and continue buying through both strong and weak markets.

The first decade may feel gradual. But over longer periods, compounding can completely change the outcome.

At an average return of 9%, a regular $500 investment could eventually grow into several million dollars.

The post What could $500 a month in ASX shares actually turn into? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ) has become a popular choice for investors seeking long-term growth.

But does it deserve a place in a portfolio today?

What does the NDQ ETF own?

The NDQ ETF tracks the Nasdaq 100 Index, which includes 100 of the largest non-financial companies listed on the Nasdaq market.

Its holdings include businesses such as NVIDIA, Apple, Microsoft, and Tesla.

These companies sit behind many of the products and services people and businesses now rely on every day. The portfolio reaches across semiconductors, cloud computing, artificial intelligence, online shopping, digital advertising, streaming, software, and consumer technology.

I think that gives the Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF a good chance of benefiting as more economic activity moves online and companies keep investing in technology.

The index also changes over time. Companies that grow can become more influential, while businesses that lose ground can shrink within the portfolio or eventually leave it.

That allows investors to back the Nasdaq's future leaders without needing to identify each winner in advance.

Why I like the long-term opportunity

Technology spending is becoming part of almost every industry.

Banks want better fraud detection, manufacturers want greater automation, healthcare providers need improved data systems, retailers want to understand customers more clearly, while companies across the economy are investing in artificial intelligence and cloud infrastructure.

Many of the Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF's holdings provide the chips, software, platforms, and digital services supporting that investment.

The companies in the index also tend to have substantial global reach. Their growth is rarely limited to the US economy because they sell products and services to customers around the world.

That combination of innovation, scale, and global demand makes the ETF attractive to me as a long-term growth investment.

What should investors consider?

The Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF is more concentrated than a broad global ETF.

Technology companies account for a large part of the portfolio, and several enormous businesses carry significant index weight. A difficult period for technology shares could therefore cause the ETF to fall sharply.

Valuation also deserves attention. Investors often pay high earnings multiples for companies expected to grow quickly. Those share prices can react badly when earnings disappoint or interest rate expectations change.

Australian investors also face currency movements because the ETF is unhedged. A stronger Australian dollar can reduce returns from US holdings when translated back into Australian dollars, while a weaker dollar can lift them.

The management fee and costs are currently 0.48% per annum. That is higher than some broad-market ETFs, although I think the focused exposure could justify the cost for investors who specifically want the Nasdaq 100.

I would hold the fund alongside other investments rather than rely on it as an entire portfolio.

My verdict

I think investing in the NDQ ETF is a good idea for investors with a long time horizon and enough tolerance for volatility.

The fund provides access to companies that could remain central to how the global economy develops over the next decade.

There will be periods when technology sentiment weakens and the ETF falls heavily. I would see those declines as part of owning a growth-focused investment.

Foolish takeaway

The NDQ ETF gives ASX investors a straightforward way to own many of the world's leading technology and consumer businesses.

Its concentration means the journey could be volatile, and I would balance it with broader Australian and international exposure.

For investors who can remain patient through market swings, I think the NDQ ETF is a strong long-term buy.

The post Is it a good idea to invest in the NDQ ETF? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

There are thousands of shares to choose from and plenty of market noise.

The good news for beginners is that ASX exchange traded funds (ETFs) can make the first step simpler.

This is because they offer investors exposure to a basket of shares in one easy trade.

With that in mind, here are five ASX ETFs that I think could be good options for beginner investors in July.

Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS)

The Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF could be a good starting point.

It gives investors exposure to over a thousand companies across developed markets. That means investors are not relying only on Australia's banks, miners, and supermarkets to drive returns.

This fund can work as a global foundation because it spreads money across countries, sectors, currencies, and businesses. A beginner does not need to know which overseas company will be the next big winner to get started.

Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS)

But if you do want some exposure to the local market, the Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF could be worth considering.

This fund tracks a large basket of Australian shares, including banks, miners, healthcare shares, retailers, property groups, infrastructure businesses, and industrial companies.

Australian shares can also be attractive because of dividends and franking credits. The local market is not as broad as the US or global markets, but it still gives investors exposure to some strong, cash-generating businesses.

Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ)

For US exposure, the Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF is worth considering.

It invests in 100 of the largest non-financial companies listed on the Nasdaq exchange.

These are businesses linked to areas such as artificial intelligence, cloud computing, software, chips, digital advertising, streaming, ecommerce, and consumer technology.

This fund will likely be more volatile than a broad market ETF, so beginners should understand that it can fall sharply at times.

But over the long term, it gives exposure to some of the companies shaping how people work, shop, communicate, and use technology. That is likely to be a good thing over the next decade.

Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF (ASX: HACK)

Another ASX ETF to look at is the Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF.

It gives investors easy access to companies helping protect networks, data, cloud systems, devices, payments, and digital identities.

Cybersecurity is becoming a larger cost for businesses as more activity moves online. The risks are also growing as companies use more cloud software, remote access, artificial intelligence tools, and connected systems.

This means that it gives beginners exposure to a long-term theme that should remain relevant as the digital economy expands.

VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat ETF (ASX: MOAT)

Finally, the VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat ETF could be worth a closer look.

This ASX ETF takes a selective approach to US shares. It looks for companies believed to have sustainable competitive advantages and attractive valuations.

In many respects, it mirrors the approach that legendary investor Warren Buffett used during his highly successful career.

This fund could appeal to beginners who want something more targeted than a standard index fund, but not as narrow as a single-sector ETF.

The post 5 ASX ETFs for beginner investors in July appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Most funds offer a menu.

Two of the most popular are "balanced" and "high growth." The choice sounds arbitrary, but over the decades, making the right choice can be worth a fortune.

Let's compare them.

How the two options differ

A balanced option spreads your money across shares, property, bonds, and cash.

A balanced portfolio typically holds around 60% to 76% in growth assets, while the rest sits in more defensive assets.

A high growth option tilts far harder towards shares and often holds 85% or more in growth assets.

That means bigger swings, but higher expected returns over time.

What the returns tell us about your superannuation

History gives us a useful guide.

Over the 10 years to 30 June 2026, AustralianSuper's balanced option returned an average of 8.47% a year.

Its high growth option returned 9.64% a year over the same period.

That difference may look small, but it is anything but.

On a large balance compounded over decades, roughly one extra percent a year adds up to serious money.

However, the trade-off is volatility.

High growth options fall harder when markets wobble, and if investors panic and switch at the bottom, they lock in the loss.

Discipline is the price of those higher returns.

Which option suits you?

The answer depends on your time horizon. If retirement is 20 years away, you can usually ride out the bumps, and as such, high growth may suit you.

If you are close to retirement, a steep fall could hurt.

A more balanced mix may help you sleep at night. Many people shift towards safer assets as they near retirement.

On top of that, your risk tolerance matters just as much as your age. The best strategy is the one you can actually stick with.

Three ASX funds that lean growth

Some investors also hold ASX-listed funds directly, inside or alongside their superannuation. Three growth-tilted ETFs stand out.

The Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS) tracks the biggest ASX companies, and the iShares Core S&P/ASX 200 ETF (ASX: IOZ) offers similar broad local exposure. By contrast, the BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ) adds global technology heavyweights.

Together, they show what a growth tilt can look like. Just remember that more growth means more volatility.

Foolish Takeaway for your superannuation

There is no single right answer for your superannuation.

High growth has historically delivered more over the long run. Balanced offers a smoother ride.

Match the option to your timeline and your temperament. Then leave it alone and let compounding do the work.

The post Should I target high growth or balanced strategies for my superannuation? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What is important is whether your investments give you exposure to companies, industries, and regions that could still be relevant in a decade or two.

With that in mind, here are three top ASX exchange traded funds (ETFs) that could be worth buying and holding for the long term.

Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ)

The Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF gives investors exposure to some of the world's best growth companies.

This fund owns 100 of the largest non-financial companies listed on the Nasdaq exchange. Examples include Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA) and Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL).

What makes this fund attractive over a 20-year period is the way its holdings sit close to the big profit pools of the digital economy.

Artificial intelligence, cloud computing, chips, software, digital advertising, ecommerce, streaming, and consumer technology are not short-term market themes. They are areas where huge amounts of spending, talent, and innovation are likely to keep flowing.

Some companies in the fund will lose momentum over time. Others may become even more important. That is the advantage of using an ETF. Investors can own the broader ecosystem rather than trying to guess exactly which company will dominate in 2046.

Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF (ASX: ASIA)

The Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF offers a different lens on technology.

Many investors look at tech through a US market lens, but Asia is central to the global digital economy. It is home to major businesses involved in semiconductors, memory chips, hardware, ecommerce, online platforms, gaming, and digital services.

Examples of holdings include SK Hynix (NASDAQ: SKHY) and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing (NYSE: TSM).

This fund is not a low-risk option. It is concentrated in one region and one sector, and investors need to be comfortable with volatility, currency movements, and geopolitical risk.

But the long-term case is still compelling. Asia is where a large part of the world's digital infrastructure is built, and it is also home to enormous consumer markets that continue to move online.

By 2046, the region's technology leaders could be playing an even larger role in global markets.

VanEck Morningstar International Wide Moat ETF (ASX: GOAT)

The VanEck Morningstar International Wide Moat ETF gives investors a more selective way to own global shares.

This fund looks for international companies that are considered to have strong competitive advantages and are trading at attractive valuations.

That makes it different from a standard global ETF. Rather than just owning the largest companies in the market, this ASX ETF is trying to identify businesses with qualities that can protect profits over time. That could include strong brands, cost advantages, intellectual property, network effects, or high switching costs.

Examples of its holdings include Novo Nordisk (NYSE: NVO) and Nike (NYSE: NKE).

The fund's role in a long-term portfolio is discipline. It gives investors exposure to global businesses, but with a filter that looks beyond popularity and market size.

Over a long period, that combination of competitive strength and valuation awareness could be valuable as market leadership changes and investors move between different sectors, countries, and themes.

The post 3 super ASX ETFs to buy and hold until 2046 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

It's very normal for investors to focus on equities in their own country, but Australians who only invest in the domestic market could be missing out on emerging themes and sectors internationally. 

Home bias 

According to the report, Australia represents just 1.4% of the global share market. 

However, many local investors allocate a large share of their portfolios to ASX-listed companies. 

This tendency is known as home bias and, while it's understandable, it can also be limiting.

Investing close to home can feel reassuring: familiar brands, known businesses and local news you can follow. But familiarity is not the same as opportunity. Some of the world's major growth themes are playing out in markets, sectors and companies that many Australian portfolios may not fully capture.

Craig also highlighted that being a small share of the global market wouldn't matter as much if Australia was consistently outperforming. 

However, it made 9.4% annualised returns over the past 10 years, which sounds good until you realise that, over that same time period, the US returned 15.5% and Japan 14.5%. 

Major growth themes are global not domestic 

Additionally, it's important to remember that buying equities is buying expected future earnings growth, and by focusing on Australia you could be missing out on some of the major growth themes in investing today. 

While the Australian market might have ridden high on the mining boom and trade links with China in the past, it has limited exposure to some of today's key growth drivers.

Take Artificial Intelligence. The opportunity is not only in US technology companies, but in the infrastructure behind them, including semiconductors, memory, data centres, power generation and electricity networks. Much of that spending flows through global supply chains, including markets like Korea, Japan and Taiwan, while Australia has only limited exposure.

Looking past AI 

While AI is perhaps the most obvious example, it is far from the only growth opportunity sitting outside the Australian market. 

For example, Craig highlights that European countries are spending heavily to secure reliable and sustainable energy supplies. 

At the same time, geopolitical tensions are driving higher defence spending across Europe.

As well as missing out on growth opportunities, investors should be aware the Australian share market is relatively concentrated in financials like major banks, and materials/mining. There is nothing inherently wrong with these sectors or businesses, but a well-constructed portfolio often seeks to diversify its sources of return across industries, economies, business models and growth drivers.

How to target international shares

For investors seeking exposure to international equities, there are numerous ASX ETFs that track other markets. 

For example, the Betashares Capital – Asia Technology Tigers ETF (ASX: ASIA) targets Asian technology companies. 

It has risen more than 60% in the last 12 months. 

Another popular fund is the BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ) which targets the largest non-financial companies listed on the Nasdaq market.

For European exposure, there is the BetaShares Europe ETF – Currency Hedged (ASX: HEUR) which provides exposure to Europe's largest companies that generate a substantial portion of their revenues outside the Eurozone.

The post Why it's vital for investors to look to international shares for growth: Expert  appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

It's been a memorable dividend season for ETFs, with some mega payments from funds invested in international shares and miners.

Six ASX ETFs are paying a 10%-plus dividend yield in a single payout this season.

Currency-hedged ETFs have delivered particularly well, with hedging magnifying returns by up to 10x in some cases.

Own other ETFs?

Here are the finalised distribution amounts for this season.

If you own Vanguard ETFs, see this season's final distributions here.

Interested in VanEck ETFs? View final distributions here.

If you're invested in iShares ETFs, see final distributions here.

Invested in Global X ETFs? Find out final distributions here.

The post Own NDQ, GAME, or other Betashares ASX ETFs? It's pay day for you! appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

But which ASX ETFs could be worth considering right now?

Here are three amazing funds that I would buy in July:

Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ)

The Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF is the fund I would consider if I wanted my portfolio to have more exposure to the companies rewriting the rules of modern business.

This fund owns 100 of the largest non-financial companies on the Nasdaq.

That means investors get access to businesses sitting behind artificial intelligence, cloud computing, digital advertising, chips, streaming, ecommerce, software, and consumer technology.

Examples of holdings include NVIDIA (NASDAQ: NVDA) and Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL).

The appeal is not just that these companies are large. It is that many of them have enormous customer bases, powerful balance sheets, and the ability to keep investing through different market cycles.

This ASX ETF may not be low volatility, but it gives investors a simple way to back some of the world's most influential growth companies.

VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat ETF (ASX: MOAT)

The VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat ETF takes a very different approach.

This fund is not trying to own every famous company in the market. It is looking for US businesses with sustainable competitive advantages that are trading at attractive prices.

That could mean strong brands, hard-to-copy networks, valuable intellectual property, cost advantages, or customer relationships that are difficult to break.

Holdings currently include Fortinet (NASDAQ: FTNT) and NXP Semiconductors (NASDAQ: NXPI).

Great businesses can still be poor investments if investors pay too much. But by combining quality with valuation, this ASX ETF gives investors a more selective way to invest in the US market.

It could suit investors who want global growth exposure, but with a filter that looks beyond size and popularity.

Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS)

The Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF is the most familiar option on this list.

It gives investors broad exposure to Australian shares by tracking the S&P/ASX 300 Index.

That means owning a slice of the banks, miners, healthcare companies, retailers, property groups, infrastructure businesses, and industrials that drive the local market.

Examples of holdings include BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) and Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA).

The fund's role in a portfolio is straightforward. It gives investors low-cost local diversification, exposure to Australian dividends, and a way to participate in the performance of the broader share market.

This ASX ETF could work well beside international funds, giving a portfolio both home-market exposure and a connection to the Australian economy.

The post 3 amazing ASX ETFs I'd buy this month appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

SK Hynix Inc (NASDAQ: SKHY), the South Korean chipmaker that supplies the high-bandwidth memory sitting inside almost every Nvidia processor, sold 177.9 million American depositary shares at US$149 each on 9 July. The company raised approximately US$26.5 billion.

The securities began trading on the Nasdaq on 10 July under the ticker SKHY, closing their first session up approximately 13% at US$168.

That makes it the largest US listing ever by a foreign company, surpassing Alibaba's US$25 billion debut in 2014.

It is also the second-largest globally after SpaceX's US$85.7 billion Nasdaq listing in June.

Is this technically speaking a SK Hynix IPO?

Despite the headlines, this was not technically an IPO.

SK Hynix's common shares have traded on the Korea Exchange for decades, and the company was already valued above US$1 trillion before the US listing.

What happened last Friday was an American depositary share offering, creating a new US-traded security tied to an already-public business rather than floating a previously private company.

SK Hynix did not become a public company through this offering. However, it made itself far easier for American and international investors to own.

Why the AI memory story is important for ASX investors

SK Hynix reported revenue of 97.1 trillion won, approximately US$64.1 billion, in 2025, a company record.

Net income reached 42.9 trillion won, or approximately US$28.3 billion, implying a net profit margin of 44%.

Its Korea-listed shares have risen by more than 515% over the past 12 months as high-bandwidth memory has become a critical bottleneck in AI infrastructure.

The company captures approximately 56% of the global HBM market, according to its SEC filing.

For ASX investors, that AI memory demand story connects directly to two ASX-listed funds and one Australian company.

Global X Semiconductor ETF (ASX: SEMI)

The most direct ASX exposure to SK Hynix is through the Global X Semiconductor ETF.

SK Hynix is already one of SEMI's largest holdings, sitting alongside Micron, AMD, TSMC, and Nvidia.

SEMI holds just 30 companies tracking the Solactive Global Semiconductor 30 Index, making it a concentrated, high-conviction way to own the semiconductor supply chain from the ASX.

That concentration cuts both ways.

The fund is heavily exposed to the memory cycle, which has historically been one of the most volatile in technology. The sector has periods of shortage-driven price surges followed by oversupply and collapsing margins.

SK Hynix's own capital expenditure plans, including two new fabrication complexes in South Korea, are examples of capacity expansion that have triggered previous downturns.

Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ)

The Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF is the other route, though the connection is less immediate.

SK Hynix's Nasdaq listing raises the prospect of eventual NASDAQ-100 Index (NASDAQ: NDX) inclusion. This would force every fund tracking that index, including NDQ, to buy SKHY.

That is the same dynamic that played out with SpaceX's fast-track inclusion earlier this month.

NDQ holders should understand that index inclusion is not automatic and would depend on SK Hynix meeting the exchange's eligibility criteria for foreign-domiciled ADRs.

NextDC Ltd (ASX: NXT)

NextDC is the Australian company most directly connected to the same underlying trend.

The AI memory shortage driving SK Hynix's extraordinary revenue growth stems from AI data centres consuming HBM faster than manufacturers can produce it.

NextDC builds and operates those data centres in Australia.

Contracted utilisation surged 60% to 667MW in the March 2026 quarter alone, and the company's forward order book is expected to generate contracted EBITDA in excess of A$1 billion.

Every dollar of SK Hynix's memory revenue reflects AI compute demand that must be housed somewhere, and in Australia, that increasingly means NextDC.

Foolish Takeaway for the SK Hynix IPO

SK Hynix's IPO is a landmark moment for the AI memory trade.

For ASX investors, SEMI provides the most direct exposure, NDQ offers a potential future index-inclusion angle, and NextDC captures the same underlying AI infrastructure demand from the Australian side.

But investors should remember that memory is a famously cyclical industry.

A wave of AI companies rushing to IPO at peak valuations has historically been a signal worth treating with caution rather than enthusiasm.

The post SK Hynix IPOs in the US. Here's what that means for ASX investors appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Shares were issued at US$135 before listing on 12 June, and the stock climbed well above US$200, pushing the valuation above US$2 trillion.

Since then, SpaceX shares have come back down to earth. Although, the company was then fast-tracked into the NASDAQ-100 Index (NASDAQ: NDX) in early July, approximately 15 trading days after listing.

Analysts remain bullish.

For ASX investors, that matters more than most realise, because a large number of Australians now own a piece of SpaceX without having made any decision to buy it.

Reasons to remain bullish on SpaceX shares

The core of the bull case is Starlink.

According to SpaceX's S-1 filing with the SEC, the Starlink connectivity segment generated US$11.4 billion in revenue in 2025. The segment delivered US$4.4 billion in operating income, representing year-on-year growth of 49.8% and 120.4%, respectively.

Starlink served 10.3 million subscribers across 164 countries as at 31 March 2026, up from just 2.3 million in 2023.

This is a business growing at extraordinary speed with a defensible moat. Launching a satellite constellation of that scale requires launch capability that almost no competitor possesses.

The Nasdaq-100 inclusion added a further mechanical tailwind. This will force index-tracking funds worldwide to buy SpaceX regardless of any individual portfolio manager's view on valuation.

Betashares Space Industry ETF

The Betashares Space Industry ETF (ASX: RCKT) is the most direct ASX exposure.

SpaceX has already been included in RCKT following the fund's fast-track inclusion feature. This allowed it to enter the Solactive Space Industry Index far more quickly than standard timelines would permit.

SpaceX now accounts for approximately 27% of the RCKT portfolio, making it the fund's single-largest holding by a wide margin.

That concentration deserves a closer look. RCKT is no longer a diversified space economy fund in any meaningful sense.

It is now, in effect, a SpaceX fund with 28 other holdings attached, and its performance will be dominated by what SPCX does from here.

Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF

The Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ) is where most Australians now own SpaceX without having chosen to.

NDQ is one of the most widely held ETFs in Australia, and SpaceX's Nasdaq-100 inclusion means every NDQ holder automatically gained SpaceX exposure when the index inclusion took effect.

The same applies to holders of the Vanguard MSCI International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS) and the iShares S&P 500 ETF (ASX: IVV). What's more, the millions of Australians whose superannuation funds hold international shares benchmarked against major US indices have also gained exposure.

For most investors, that exposure will be small relative to the overall portfolio.

But it exists, automatically, without any further action required.

The risk worth understanding for SpaceX shares

SpaceX is not a conventionally profitable company.

The company posted a GAAP net loss of US$4.94 billion in 2025, driven by losses in the xAI and Space divisions that offset Starlink's profitability.

A company trading above US$2 trillion with significant GAAP losses is a demanding proposition, even for investors genuinely excited by the long-term opportunity.

The mechanical index buying that has supported the share price since listing was a one-time event, not a permanent support mechanism.

Furthermore, SpaceX bonds issued shortly after the IPO have reportedly sold off to levels comparable with junk-rated borrowers.

This is despite investment-grade ratings, a warning sign that the debt market is less enthusiastic than the equity market.

Foolish Takeaway for SpaceX shares

Analysts remain bullish on SpaceX shares, and Starlink's growth justifies significant optimism.

But for ASX investors, the more important point is that ownership of SpaceX is now largely automatic rather than chosen.

RCKT holders own it heavily, at around 26% of the fund.

NDQ, VGS, and IVV holders own it passively.

Understanding how much exposure you actually have to SpaceX is perhaps a more useful exercise than debating whether to buy it.

The post Analysts are still bullish on SpaceX shares after Nasdaq inclusion. Here is what that means for ASX investors appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Three meaningful changes took effect on 1 July 2026 and will appear in your FY27 return.

Understanding each of them before you lodge will help you maximise your refund and avoid common mistakes.

Change one: the 15% tax rate

The most important change is the reduction in the marginal tax rate on income between $18,201 and $45,000.

That rate dropped from 16% to 15% from 1 July 2026, delivering a tax cut worth up to $268 per year to every Australian taxpayer.

For most salary and wage earners, this adjustment was already applied to your take-home pay from 1 July through your employer's PAYG withholding calculations.

When you lodge your FY27 return, the ATO will calculate your tax at the new 15% rate automatically.

You do not need to do anything specific to claim this benefit.

However, if you changed jobs during the year, started freelancing, or had irregular income, your employer may not have withheld at exactly the right rate.

Change two: the $1,000 instant work-related expense deduction

From FY27, every Australian who earns salary or wage income can claim up to $1,000 in work-related expenses without keeping a single receipt.

Previously, the receipt-free limit was $300.

The new $1,000 deduction applies automatically when you lodge your return.

For a worker on a 32.5% marginal tax rate, claiming the full $1,000 deduction is worth approximately $325 in tax savings.

The deduction cannot be combined with specific expense claims above $1,000. If your actual work-related expenses exceed $1,000 and you have receipts to prove it, you should claim the actual amount rather than the instant deduction.

Work-related expenses include items like home office costs, professional development, tools, uniforms, and technology used for work.

Change three: higher Medicare levy thresholds

Medicare levy low-income thresholds increased from 1 July 2025 and apply to the FY27 return.

The threshold for singles rose to $28,011, up from $27,222, meaning more low-income Australians will pay no Medicare levy on their FY27 return.

The family threshold rose to $47,238 and increases by $4,338 for each dependent child or student.

For single seniors and pensioners, the threshold rose to $44,268.

If you earn below these thresholds, you may be entitled to a Medicare levy reduction or exemption when you lodge.

What to do with any tax refund

A tax refund is not a windfall. Instead, it is the return of money you overpaid during the year.

However, how you deploy a refund still matters.

Spending it immediately on discretionary items means the tax cut effectively disappears into everyday consumption.

Investing it, even a modest amount, is the start of a compounding habit.

Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) is the most widely held ASX share among Australian retail investors. The company offers a fully franked dividend yield and long-term earnings track record that suits a regular, small-investment approach.

Alternatively, for investors who want instant diversification rather than individual stock selection, the Betashares Australia 200 ETF (ASX: A200) charges just 0.04% per annum and tracks the performance of 200 of Australia's largest companies in a single trade.

For global technology and AI exposure, the Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ) gives investors access to the world's largest non-financial technology companies. This will includes SpaceX following its Nasdaq-100 inclusion this week.

Foolish takeaway

Your FY27 tax return will be simpler in some ways and more lucrative in others.

The 15% rate and the $1,000 instant deduction both reduce your tax liability automatically.

The Medicare levy changes may eliminate the levy entirely for lower-income earners.

Understanding the changes before you lodge means you claim what you are entitled to, rather than leaving money on the table.

The post Your FY27 tax return will look different. Here's what changed and how to prepare appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

I would be looking for funds that give me access to different engines of long-term growth: global innovation, emerging economic scale, and local technology businesses trying to become much larger over time.

Here are three Betashares ETFs I would consider buying.

Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ)

The first ETF I would consider is one that gives investors exposure to some of the world's most powerful businesses.

The NDQ ETF tracks the Nasdaq 100, which means it allows investors to buy a portion of companies shaping how the digital economy works.

I like this ETF because many of its holdings are not just selling products. They are building systems that other businesses and consumers rely on every day.

Search, cloud computing, semiconductors, digital advertising, productivity software, streaming, e-commerce, payments, and artificial intelligence all sit inside the broader Nasdaq story.

That makes this Betashares ETF more than a simple technology ETF in my mind. It is a way to invest in companies that keep finding new ways to turn scale, data, software, and user attention into earnings.

Betashares India Quality ETF (ASX: IIND)

The second ETF I would look at is focused on a market that feels very different to the usual developed-market options.

The IIND ETF gives investors exposure to Indian companies with quality characteristics.

What interests me about India is not just population size. It is the combination of rising incomes, expanding digital infrastructure, formalisation of the economy, and increasing demand for financial services, healthcare, consumer goods, and technology.

India has a long runway if more households enter the middle class, more businesses move into the formal economy, and more spending shifts through digital channels.

I also like that this Betashares ETF has a quality filter. Emerging markets can be volatile, and not every fast-growing company creates value for shareholders. A quality-focused approach can help tilt the portfolio toward businesses with stronger financial foundations.

Betashares S&P/ASX Australian Technology ETF (ASX: ATEC)

The final Betashares ETF I would consider is the most local of the three.

The ATEC ETF gives investors exposure to Australian technology companies.

I like this idea because Australia has produced some strong technology businesses, but they can be hard to pick individually. Some will disappoint, some may be acquired, and some may grow into much larger companies than investors expect. An ETF approach spreads that risk.

Its holdings include companies offering payments, logistics, accounting, real estate, data, software, and online marketplaces, which can all create value when they make customers faster, more efficient, or better informed.

Foolish takeaway

If I were investing $10,000 into Betashares ETFs, I would want the money working across different types of growth.

I like the idea of combining global digital leaders, India's long-term economic development, and Australian technology companies trying to scale.

That mix would not be smooth every year. But I think it gives investors exposure to areas of the market where change can create real wealth over time.

For patient investors, I think these three Betashares ETFs could be strong long-term buys.

The post 3 Betashares ETFs I'd buy with $10,000 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

However, thanks to its rather opaque name, many investors might not actually know what this ETF is offering up to them. 

This is important for any ASX ETF, but arguably particularly so for NDQ units. This ETF is one of the most concentrated funds when it comes to the US stocks it is exposing ASX investors to. Some investors who don't yet own the Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF might wish to buy some after hearing about these stocks. Others may want to stay away from the heavy exposure to tech stocks that this index fund offers up.

If you wish to find out which side of this ledger you might fall on, you're in the right place.

NDQ: What's in this ASX ETF?

Let's start at the top. The Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF is technically an index fund that tracks the NASDAQ-100 Index (NASDAQ: NDX). This index contains the 100 largest non-financial companies listed on the NASDAQ, one of the two major stock exchanges in the United States of America.

The NASDAQ, together with the New York Stock Exchange, houses almost all of the publicly listed stocks in America. However, the NASDAQ is the more modern exchange that tends to attract newer companies, particularly of the tech persuasion. As a result, the Betahsares Nasdaq 100 ETF is heavily exposed to America's largest tech companies.

In fact, its current top ten holdings are all tech stocks. Here's a look at them, including how much weight they take up in the NDQ ETF's portfolio:

1. Nvidia Corp (NASDAQ: NVDA) at 7.5% of NDQ's portfolio
2. Apple Inc (NASDAQ: AAPL) at 7.2%
3. Micron Technology Inc (NASDAQ: MU) at 4.8%
4. Microsoft Corp (NASDAQ: MSFT) at 4.5%
5. Amazon.com Inc (NASDAQ: AMZN) at 4.1%
6. Advanced Micro Devices Inc (NASDAQ: AMD) at 3.9%
7. Alphabet Inc Class A (NASDAQ: GOOGL) at 3.4%
8. Tesla Inc (NASDAQ: TSLA) at 3.3%
9. Alphabet Inc Class C (NASDAQ: GOOG) at 3.1%
10. Meta Platforms Inc (NASDAQ: META) at 2.8%

As you can see, NDQ's top ten reads as a who's who of the tech world. Of course, this isn't a tech-only ETF. Some other names in this fund that you might recognise that hail from other sectors include Walmart Inc (NASDAQ: WMT), PepsiCo Inc (NASDAQ: PEP), and Costco Wholesale Corp (NASDAQ: COST).

But drilling down, a whopping 61.4% of NDQ's weighted portfolio is in tech stocks. The next-most dominant sector in this ASX ETF is communications, at a mere 12.1%.

Tech lifts the BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF

Of course, NDQ's fans will tell you (and they aren't wrong) that it is this tech exposure that is responsible for this ETF's breathtaking returns over many years.

Since its inception in 2015, the Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF has returned an average of 20.37% per annum. That's as of 30 June. That extends to 22.45% per annum over the past ten years.

Over the past five years, investors have enjoyed 17.86% per annum, 24.4% over three years, and 26.37% over the past 12 months.

Let's see how NDQ fares going forward.

The Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF charges a management fee of 0.48% per annum.

The post Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF: What stocks are actually in NDQ? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Dividend stocks are a fantastic option because they provide passive income that can supplement retirement savings while offering the potential for long-term capital growth. 

Companies with a strong history of paying consistent, and ideally increasing, dividends can provide a reliable income stream, although it's important to remember that dividends are not guaranteed and share prices can fluctuate. 

Another important consideration is the impact of inflation.

Many retirees will need to live off superannuation for more than 20 or 30 years, and inflation can eat into the purchasing power of their savings over time. 

Investments that have the potential to deliver returns above the rate of inflation can help preserve wealth and maintain living standards throughout retirement. 

Building a diversified portfolio that includes growth assets alongside income-producing investments can provide a balance between protecting capital and ensuring retirement savings continue to work over the long term.

Here are five options to consider that stretch across growth and income assets to compliment your superannuation. 

Dividend stocks to consider 

For retirees looking to target dividend stocks, one great option is Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS). 

It is often considered an attractive dividend stock for retirees because of its established market position, relatively stable cash flows, and history of paying consistent dividends. 

Its essential telecommunications services provide resilient earnings, making it a popular choice for investors seeking reliable income alongside the potential for modest long-term capital growth.

Another dividend stock with a strong reputation is BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP). 

It is a popular dividend stock for retirees because of its strong balance sheet, global leadership in mining, and history of returning a significant portion of profits to shareholders through dividends. 

While dividend payments can fluctuate with commodity prices, BHP's exposure to essential resources such as iron ore and copper provides the potential for attractive income and long-term growth.

Finally, income investors might also target Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG). 

While its dividend may be more cyclical than those of traditional defensive companies, Macquarie's exposure to infrastructure, asset management, and renewable energy provides both income potential and opportunities for long-term capital growth.

Growth shares to consider 

While passive income is important, it isn't the entire story for a healthy compliment to your superannuation. 

For investors looking to outpace inflation during retirements, two great ASX ETFs to consider are: 

• BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ)
• Vanguard Diversified High Growth Index ETF (ASX: VDHG)

These ASX ETFs focus on strong long-term growth potential. 

This makes them both an attractive option for retirees seeking capital appreciation to help offset the effects of inflation.

They also offer broad international diversification helps reduce single-market risk while providing long-term growth potential.

The post 5 of the best investments on the ASX right now to complement your superannuation appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.