Perhaps that's no surprise, given materials was the best performer of the 11 market sectors by a long shot in FY26.

The S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) soared 47% and produced total returns, including dividends, of 52%. 

That compares to a 3% rise for the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) and a total return of 7%.

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

Let's take a closer look at the best performers among ETFs invested solely in Australian equities.

Top 6 ETFs holding Aussie shares

We've ranked these ETFs by total returns, which incorporates capital growth plus distributions (dividends).

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

OZR ETF delivered an exceptional total one-year return of 51%. The historical distribution yield is 2.4%.

The OZR ETF is $16.63, down 2.4% on Friday.

This ASX ETF seeks to mirror the performance of the S&P/ASX 200 Resources Index.

OZR invests in 59 large companies, predominantly miners, oil and gas suppliers, and other resources companies like steel makers.

The ETF currently has a 40% weighting to BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) shares.

The management fee is 0.34%.

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

QRE ETF produced an equally impressive total one-year return of 50%. The historical distribution yield is 2.3%.

QRE ETF is $9.54, down 1.6% today.

This ASX ETF seeks to track the Solactive Australia Resources Sector Index.

It is invested in 56 resources companies and also has a 40% weighting to BHP shares.

The management fee is 0.34%.

3. VanEck Australian Resources ETF (ASX: MVR)

MVR ETF gave investors a total return of 42% in FY26. The historical distribution yield is 2.6%.

MVR ETF is $44.36, down 2.3% today.

This ASX ETF tracks the MVIS Australia Resources Index.

Index constituents are determined using a rules-based methodology focused on liquidity, with a minimum 20 holdings and maximum weighting of about 8% each. There are 35 ASX shares in the index presently.

Examples of companies included in the index are miners; mining services and equipment providers; coal, oil, gas, and uranium producers; power generation and renewable energy suppliers; and young companies with the potential to generate at least 50% of their revenue from mining once fully developed. Stocks must exceed a market capitalisation of US$150 million to be considered for the index.

Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) is the largest constituent in the fund with an 8.34% weighting today.

The management fee is 0.35%.

4. iShares S&P/ASX Dividend Opp ESG Screened ETF (ASX: IHD)

This dividend-focused ETF delivered a total one-year return of 22%. The historical distribution yield is 4%.

IHD ETF is $17.06, down 0.4% today.

This ASX ETF tracks the S&P/ASX Sustainability Screened Dividend Opportunities Index.

The index is comprised of 50 high-yielding ASX shares that have been screened with environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) criteria to exclude selected activities.

This ASX ETF pays dividends quarterly, and the management fee is 0.23%.

5. Dimensional Australian Value Trust Active ETF (ASX: DAVA)

DAVA ETF gave investors a total return of 21% in FY26. The historical distribution yield is 6.7%.

This ASX ETF is trading at $30.86 on Friday, up 0.1%.

DAVA is an active ETF whose objective is long-term capital growth using a value investing strategy.

The management fee is 0.335%.

6. BetaShares FTSE RAFI Australia 200 ETF (ASX: QOZ)

QOZ ETF delivered a total one-year return of 20%. The historical distribution yield is 3.8%.

This ASX ETF is trading at $18.96 on Friday, down 0.4%.

QOZ tracks the FTSE RAFI Australia 200 Index, which captures 200 listed companies weighted by economic importance rather than simple market capitalisation.

Betashares says index constituent weighting is based on accounting values, and is known as "fundamental indexing".

The broker further explains:

QOZ's approach aims to deliver outperformance by selling expensive shares while buying those which are undervalued.

By removing the link between the price of a stock and its weight in the index, QOZ's strategy is less affected by fads and bubbles.

The biggest constituents today are BHP shares at 14% and Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) at 7%.

The management fee is 0.4%.

Further reading

Check out the 6 best international ASX ETFs of FY26.

The post 6 best ETFs holding ASX shares in FY26 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Zooming out a little further, we can see which sectors generally beat expectations and performed well. 

Investors can then target these sectors through individual shares or thematic ASX ETFs.

Here are some key sectors that performed well over earnings season, and funds that offer exposure to that sector. 

Big four bank recovery

It's well known that the big four banks are a cornerstone of Australia's economic landscape. 

But the performance of the big four banks surprised many this earnings season. 

In the past month: 

• National Australia Bank Ltd (ASX: NAB) have risen 12.8%
• Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) are up nearly 19%
• Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC) have climbed 9.4%
• ANZ Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: ANZ) are up 7.9%

Key earnings season highlights included: 

• NAB posted a 15% hike in its cash earnings for the first quarter of FY26 and a 6% increase in revenue.
• CBA reported a 6% increase in cash net profit to $5,445 million. The bank also lifted its interim dividend by 4%.
• Westpac reported a 5% increase in unaudited statutory net profit and a 6% increase in net profit excluding notable items.
• ANZ reported a first-quarter cash profit of $1.94 billion, up 75% from the second-half average of FY25.

It's worth noting, some brokers ratings indicate valuations on the big four banks now look inflated.

However,  this earnings season has already proven investors are more than happy to buy big four bank shares regardless. 

Which ASX ETFs include the big four?

If you are looking to target these companies through an ASX ETF, there are a couple of options. 

Firstly, investors might consider VanEck Vectors Australian Banks ETF (ASX: MVB). 

80% of the fund is allocated to the big four, in addition to three other ASX bank shares that make up the rest. 

It has risen 8.7% in the last month. 

Another option is the BetaShares S&P/ASX 200 Financials Sector ETF (ASX: QFN). 

While it doesn't only include banks, the big four make up 75% of the total fund. 

The other 25% is made up of other ASX-listed companies in the financial sector. 

It has risen almost 9% in the last month. 

Miners climb

Broadly speaking, blue-chip energy and materials/miners also performed well this earnings season. 

The S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) and S&P/ASX 200 Resources Index (ASX: XJR) are up roughly 7% in February.

This has included steady gains from some of Australia's biggest companies: 

• BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) shares are up 10% in a month.
• Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) shares have lifted 14%.
• Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO) shares are up over 5%.

For exposure to these companies, some ASX ETFs to consider include: 

• SPDR S&P/ASX 200 Resources Fund (ASX: OZR) includes roughly 50% weighting to these three companies. 
• BetaShares S&P/ASX 200 Resources Sector ETF (ASX: QRE) also has these three companies as its largest three by exposure. 

The post How to target earnings season winners with ASX ETFs 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.

This was largely in response to persistently high inflation. 

This RBA decision impacts many aspects of the Australian economy. 

When a decision like this is made, it's prudent for investors to look at where opportunity may lie. 

It's useful to think about what types of ETFs may benefit or be more resilient in that environment. 

Rate hikes can pressure some sectors (like high-growth tech or bonds) while supporting banks, commodities, and floating-rate assets.

Here are three ASX ETFs that may be poised to benefit from increased interest rates. 

BetaShares S&P/ASX 200 Financials Sector ETF (ASX: QFN)

The case for this ASX ETF is pretty straightforward. 

When the RBA raises the cash rate, financial companies – especially banks – often see improved profitability. 

That's because banks can typically pass higher rates onto borrowers faster than they raise deposit costs, at least initially, which can widen net interest margins (NIM) and boost earnings. 

This fund has strong exposure to this sector. 

It includes a portfolio of the largest ASX-listed companies in the financial sector. 

This includes the 'Big 4' banks and insurance companies, while excluding Real Estate Investment Trusts.

In fact, more than 70% of the portfolio is comprised of Australia's largest four banks. 

SPDR S&P/ASX 200 Resources Fund (ASX: OZR)

During rate rises, investors often rotate toward sectors tied to commodities (materials, energy, gold) which can outperform as inflationary pressures build and commodity prices strengthen.

This ASX ETF provides exposure to Australia's resource sector (miners, energy). 

These stocks have historically reacted well when global demand and commodity prices are strong.

This fund aims to track the returns of the S&P/ASX 200 Resources Index.

At the time of writing, it is made up of 51 holdings, with its largest exposure being to:

• BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) 35.16%
• Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO) 7.80%
• Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) 6.64%

BetaShares Global Banks ETF – Currency Hedged (ASX: BNKS)

Australia isn't the only country that operates with a central bank cash rate target. 

As central banks tighten policy, bank profitability in major economies like the US and Europe often strengthens, which directly supports the earnings of the banks held in BNKS.

For investors who anticipate global economies may also increase rates this year, this ASX ETF comprises the largest global banks (ex-Australia), hedged into Australian dollars.

This also provides international diversification, so an investor would not be relying solely on Australian rate decisions.

The post 3 ASX ETFs to target following the RBA interest rate hike 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.

The major miners, led by BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP), set new 52-week highs, as did the market's biggest pure-play copper share.

Several ASX mining ETFs also hit new 52-week highs, including the SPDR S&P/ASX 200 Resources ETF (ASX: OZR).

Meanwhile, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) lifted 0.24% to finish the week at 8,634.6 points.

The benchmark index is now 5.3% down on its October record of 9,115.2 points.

Strong commodity prices lifted ASX 200 mining shares last week.

Iron ore and copper prices rose while the gold price hovered not far off its record high set in October.

Let's review.

ASX 200 mining shares rip amid higher commodity prices

The BHP share price rose 7.61% over the week to finish at a new 52-week high of $44.84 on Friday.

The Fortescue Ltd (ASX: FMG) share price ascended 3.27% to close at a 52-week high of $22.11.

Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO) set a new 52-week high at $140.58 on Thursday and finished 4.68% higher over the week at $138.47.

Pure-play ASX 200 copper share, Sandfire Resources Ltd (ASX: SFR) set an all-time record at $17.20 on Thursday.

Sandfire Resources shares rose 7.3% over the week to finish at $16.88 apiece on Friday.

Capstone Copper Corp (ASX: CSC) shares rose 9% to close out the week at $14.38.

Stronger iron ore and copper prices supported these ASX 200 mining shares last week.

Iron ore rose 2.9% to US$107.88 per tonne, which may not seem like a big bump, but it makes up the bulk of the 4.1% year-to-date (YTD) gain.

One of the tailwinds for the iron ore price is China's announcement of new supports for its troubled property sector.

According to Trading Economics, these include lower taxes on home purchases and additional mortgage subsidies.

Copper futures rose 4% last week to US$5.40 per pound on Friday. That's a YTD gain of 35.5%.

The strong copper price is a tailwind for BHP and Rio Tinto shares given both companies have greatly expanded their copper operations.

BHP is now the world's largest copper producer, and copper formed 45% of its total underlying EBITDA in FY25, up from 29% in FY24.

What about gold?

The gold price moved sideways last week and remains high at about US$4,200 per ounce.

That's not far off its historical peak of US$4,381.58 per ounce reached in October.

A Goldman Sachs poll found almost 70% of institutional investors expect the gold price to keep rising in 2026.

Last week, the market's largest ASX 200 gold share, Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST), fell 3.06% to $26.33.

The Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN) share price lifted 1.01% to $12.

Newmont Corporation CDI (ASX: NEM) shares fell 0.9% to $138.20.

Gold and copper miner, Greatland Resources Ltd (ASX: GGP) streaked 11% higher to $8.38 per share.

ASX 200 market sector snapshot

Here's how the 11 market sectors stacked up last week, according to CommSec data.

Over the five trading days:

The post ASX 200 mining shares outperform as iron ore and copper prices strengthen appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Overnight, the iron ore price rose 0.39% to US$107.77 per tonne.

That's a 3% rise in a week, which may not sound like much, but over the year to date, it makes up the bulk of the 4% overall gain.

The BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) share price rose 3.8% to a 52-week peak of $44.60 before closing at $44.50 on Thursday.

The Fortescue Ltd (ASX: FMG) share price lifted 1.15% to a 52-week high of $22.03 and closed at $21.63.

The Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO) share price increased 3.9% to a 52-week high and closing value of $140.58.

The largest pure-play ASX 200 copper share, Sandfire Resources Ltd (ASX: SFR), also ripped on Thursday.

The Sandfire Resources share price rose 5.3% to an all-time record of $17.20 today before closing at $16.83.

At the time of writing, the copper price is trading at a four-month high of US$5.33 per pound, up 0.53%.

BHP and Rio Tinto have materially increased their exposure to copper amid higher demand due to the clean energy transition.

In fact, BHP is now the world's largest copper producer.

The red metal formed 45% of BHP's total underlying earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation (EBITDA) in FY25, up from 29% in FY24.

The copper price has risen 5% this week and 34% in the year to date.

Analysts at Trading Economics commented on this week's copper price rise:

The advance tracked a record peak on the London Metal Exchange last Friday due to supply constraints, including lower output in Chile, planned cuts by Chinese smelters, and a weaker dollar.

The dollar softened as markets positioned for a possible Federal Reserve rate cut next week.

Since the end of August, copper has risen around 13% on the LME amid ongoing shortages.

At the same time, traders increased shipments to the US to capitalize on elevated Comex prices amid ongoing uncertainty over potential future tariffs from President Donald Trump.

ASX mining ETFs also hit new price milestones

Several ASX mining exchange-traded funds (ETFs) also reached new 52-week highs today.

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

The OZR ETF lifted to a 52-week high of $14.89 on Thursday.

BHP, Fortescue, and Rio Tinto shares comprise 48% of holdings.

Betashares Australian Resources Sector ETF (ASX: QRE)

The QRE ETF rose to a 52-week high of $8.62 apiece today.

BHP, Fortescue, and Rio Tinto shares make up 47% of this ETF's investments.

Global X Copper Miners ETF (ASX: WIRE)

The WIRE ETF rose to a record high of $20.62 today.

BHP and Sandfire Resources comprise almost 8% of holdings in this global copper ETF.

Capstone Copper Corp CDI (ASX: CSC) shares represent another 3.3%.

The post Major ASX 200 mining shares hit 52-week highs 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.

Except for the SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust (ASX: SPY), the ex-dividend date for the distributions listed below is today.

The payment date is 11 July.

Here are the details.

How much will SPDR ASX ETF investors get?

The SPDR S&P/ASX 200 ETF (ASX: STW) will pay 66.6712 cents in cash per unit. The ETF will also pay 13.5988 cents worth of franking credits and 0.2108 cents worth of foreign tax credits.

The SPDR S&P/ASX iBoxx Australian Government Bond ETF (ASX: GOVT) will pay 18.0410 cents in cash per unit.

The SPDR S&P/ASX 200 ESG ETF (ASX: E200) will pay 107.1402 cents in cash per unit, plus 5.0135 cents worth of franking credits and 0.0323 cents worth of foreign tax credits.

The SPDR S&P/ASX 50 ETF (ASX: SFY) will pay 64.0319 cents in cash per unit plus 13.2627 cents worth of franking credits.

The SPDR MSCI Australia Select High Dividend Yield ETF (ASX: SYI) will pay 264.7328 cents in cash per unit. The ETF will also pay 7.8319 cents worth of franking credits and 0.0002 cents worth of foreign tax credits.

The SPDR S&P/ASX Small Ordinaries ETF (ASX: SSO) will pay 21.5897 cents in cash per unit, plus 6.9222 cents worth of franking credits and 0.1865 cents worth of foreign tax credits.

The SPDR S&P/ASX 200 Resources ETF (ASX: OZR) will pay 20.6316 cents in cash per unit, plus 8.0525 cents worth of franking credits and 0.03770 cents worth of foreign tax credits.

But wait, there's more!

The SPDR S&P/ASX 200 Listed Property ETF (ASX: SLF) will pay 31.5595 cents in cash per unit. The ETF will also pay 0.0144 cents worth of franking credits and 0.0475 cents worth of foreign tax credits.

The SPDR MSCI World Quality Mix ETF (ASX: QMIX) will pay 109.9871 cents in cash per unit, plus 0.5967 cents worth of franking credits and 6.4629 cents worth of foreign tax credits.

The SPDR S&P Global Dividend ETF (AUS) (ASX: WDIV) will pay 125.7777 cents in cash per unit, plus 0.0365 cents worth of franking credits and 9.1763 cents worth of foreign tax credits.

The SPDR S&P World ex Australia Carbon Aware ETF (ASX: WXOZ) will pay 345.1500 cents in cash per unit. The ETF will also pay 11.4313 cents worth of foreign tax credits.

The SPDR S&P/ASX 200 Financials Ex-A-REIT Fund ETF (ASX: OZF) will pay 70.5192 cents in cash per unit plus 11.4581 cents worth of franking credits.

The SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust (ASX: SPY) will pay US 1.761117 cents in cash per unit. The ex-dividend date was 20 June. The expected pay date for ASX investors is 14 August. State Street will announce the foreign exchange rate for the conversion into Australian currency in due course.

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Over the past few years, inflationary pressures have impacted Australian living standards and discretionary income. According to The Australian, real income per person last quarter was slightly lower than it was a year ago and only 1.5% higher than it was a decade ago. The past 10 years have been the weakest decade of growth since 1983.

Dividends can help meet higher living costs by boosting passive income. The Australian franking credit system also makes dividends extremely tax-efficient. Publicly listed Australian companies can attach franking credits to their dividends. This reflects the amount of tax already paid to the Australian Tax Office (ATO) on those earnings. Shareholders then receive a credit for the tax already paid by the company, reducing their tax liability. 

Instead of building a portfolio of individual high-yield ASX companies, ASX investors can invest in one or more exchange-traded funds (ETFs). This strategy allows investors to maintain a diversified portfolio while also reducing brokerage costs. Those interested in dividend-focused ETFs should consider the following ASX ETFs.

Vanguard Australian Shares High Yield ETF (ASX: VHY)

The Vanguard Australian Shares High Yield ETF provides ASX investors with exposure to Australian companies with high dividend yields, relative to the market. As of 31 March 2025, its forecast dividend yield was 4.9%, with distributions paid quarterly. For a management expense of 0.25%, investors gain exposure to 67 companies. Diversification is achieved by restricting the proportion of any one industry to 40% of the total ETF and 10% in any one company. This ETF could be a great option to boost passive income.

BetaShares Australia Top 20 Equity Yield Max Fund ETF (ASX: YMAX)

ASX investors looking for higher passive income should consider the BetaShares Australia Top 20 Equity Yield Max Fund. For a management fee of 0.59%, investors gain access to an actively managed portfolio of the 20 largest Australian companies. The distribution yield for this ETF is materially higher than VHY at 8.0%. Distributions are also paid quarterly.

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

ASX investors looking for a diversified ETF that is concentrated in the resources sector should have a serious look at the SPDR S&P/ASX 200 Resources ETF. For a management expense ratio of 0.34%, investors gain exposure to 48 holdings derived from Australia's major dividend-paying resources companies in a single trade. With a dividend yield of 4.71%, it is comparable to VHY. In contrast to VHY and YMAX, distributions are paid semi-annually.

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An ASX dividend share offering a 10% or greater yield on one's cash is a compelling proposition. We only found out this week that Australia's annual inflation rate is running at 6.9%. This technically means that if a dividend yield is under that threshold, the payments alone are not keeping your returns above breakeven.

So a 10% yielder is looking pretty good on that basis.

But finding high-yield ASX dividend shares is a bit of a risky business. There are plenty out there, to be sure. But if an ASX dividend share is offering a trailing yield above 10%, it's a sign that an investor might have to be wary. A company's trailing dividend yield reflects the past, not the future.

And if the share market lets a share trade with a trailing yield of more than 10%, it can often mean that many investors aren't expecting the dividends to continue at that level.

Otherwise, there would be more buyers, pushing the yield lower. So, always take a high dividend yield with a grain of salt.

But we digress. Here are 10 ASX dividend shares offering a dividend yield above 10% right now. The data comes from S&P Global Market Intelligence.

10 ASX shares with dividend yields over 10% today

Smartgroup Corporation Ltd (ASX: SIQ)

Smartgroup has paid out 66 cents per share in dividends over the past 12 months. That includes the March special dividend of 30 cents per share. This gives Smartgroup a trailing dividend yield of 12.6% right now.

Tabcorp Holdings Limited (ASX: TAH)

Gaming services provider Tabcorp has doled out payments worth a collective 13 cents per share this year. That gives Tabcorp a trailing yield of 12.42% at current pricing. But keep in mind that Tabcorp spun out Lottery Corporation Ltd (ASX: TLC) earlier this year, so this could affect Tabcorp's future dividend levels.

Yancoal Australia Ltd (ASX: YAL)

ASX coal share Yancoal is next up. This coal company has rained cash on its shareholders this year. It has doled out $1.03 in ordinary dividends per share, as well as a special dividend of 20.4 cents, for a total of $1.23 in dividends per share for 2022. That translates to a trailing dividend yield of 17.56% for just the ordinary dividends, and a whopping 21%, including the special dividend.

Magellan Financial Group Ltd (ASX: MFG)

ASX fund manager Magellan is another high-yielding share right now. This company has rolled out a total of $1.79 in dividends per share this year. At Magellan's current share price, that is worth a trailing yield of 18.34%

Latitude Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: LFS)

Financial services company Latitude is another relative newcomer to the ASX, having only listed in April last year. But it has certainly hit the ground running when it comes to dividend payments. Latitude has funded a total of 15.7 cents per share in dividends in 29022. That gives the ASX financial share a trailing yield of 11.89% right now.

Fortescue Metals Group Limited (ASX: FMG)

Fortescue is one of the ASX's more well-known dividend payers these days. And over 2022, Fortescue did not disappoint in this regard. Investors have enjoyed a total of $2.07 in dividend payments per share this year. That gives Fortescue a trailing yield of 10.51% today.

Base Resources Ltd (ASX: BSE)

Mineral sands producer Base Resources is next. This company has given investors two dividends worth 3 cents per share each over 2022. On today's share price of 21 cents, that equates to a trailing yield of a whopping 28.57%

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

This exchange-traded fund (ETF) has had a top year when it comes to distribution payouts. This fund, as its name implies, holds a basket of ASX resources shares. So you can understand why it has been able to make its investors very happy in this regard. Investors have enjoyed payments worth a total of $2.08 per unit this year. That gives this ETF a trailing yield of 14.54% on today's pricing

Regal Investment Fund (ASX: RF1)

Listed investment trust Regal is another dividend share with an enviable yield. Investors have enjoyed distributions worth 39.56 cents per unit over the past 12 months. That gives the Regal Investment Fund a trailing distribution yield of 12.21%.

SPDR MSCI Australia Select High Dividend Yield ETF (ASX: SYI)

Our final share to check out today is another ETF. As its name implies, this fund from SPDR focuses on holding a basket of high-yield dividend shares. It pays distributions quarterly, which, over the past 12 months, totals $4.29 per unit. On the current unit price of $27.95, that gives this ETF a trailing yield of 15.35%.

The post 10 ASX dividend shares paying more than 10% yield right now appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.