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

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

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

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

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

Is Australia now in a new mining boom?

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

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

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

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

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

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

In an article, Wong and White said:

[This is] a new kind of commodity supercycle.

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

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

In a recent article, Dr Oliver said:

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

This will benefit Australia's resource stocks.

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

Commodity prices and ASX mining shares

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

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

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

Wong and White added:

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

Impact on ASX mining shares

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

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

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

Many other ASX mining shares have also hit new records.

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

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

Foolish Takeaway

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

They said:

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

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

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

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

Wong and White conclude:

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

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

Zooming out 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.

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.

Investors in the Betashares Global Gold Miners Currency Hedged ETF (ASX: MNRS) will be among those paid today.

The gold miners ETF was one of the best performers of 2025, delivering a whopping total return of 149%.

MNRS tracks the performance of the Nasdaq Global ex-Australia Gold Miners Hedged AUD Index.

The 65% rally in the gold price last year, building on the 24% lift in 2024, was a big tailwind behind MNRS last year.

Investors in Betashares Global Defence ETF (ASX: ARMR) will also be paid today.

ARMR is benefitting from a big increase in global defence spending amid volatile geopolitics these days.

It tracks the VettaFi Global Defence Leaders Index and gave investors a total return of 48% last year.

Dividends to be paid today

Here are the dividends that investors will receive, rounded to two decimal places, today.

The Betashares Australia 200 ETF (ASX: A200) will pay $1.15 per unit with 60% franking.

Betashares Australian Quality ETF (ASX: AQLT) will pay 47 cents per unit with 93% franking.

The Betashares Global Defence ETF (ASX: ARMR) will pay 32 cents per unit.

Betashares Global Gold Miners Currency Hedged ETF (ASX: MNRS) will pay 3 cents per unit.

The Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF (ASX: ASIA) will pay 67 cents per unit.

Betashares S&P/ASX Australian Technology ETF (ASX: ATEC) will pay 6 cents per unit with 106% franking.

Betashares Diversified All Growth ETF (ASX: DHHF) will pay 30 cents per unit with 22% franking.

The Betashares Global Sustainability Leaders ETF (ASX: ETHI) will pay 4 cents per unit.

Betashares Australian Sustainability Leaders ETF (ASX: FAIR) will pay 29 cents per unit with 65% franking.

But wait, there's more…

The Betashares Geared Australian Equity Fund – Hedge Fund (ASX: GEAR) will pay 45 cents per unit with 225% franking.

Betashares Australian Dividend Harvester Active ETF (ASX: HVST) will pay 6 cents per unit with 74% franking.

The Betashares S&P Australian Shares High Yield ETF (ASX: HYLD) will pay 12 cents per unit with 66% franking.

Betashares Australian Financials Sector ETF (ASX: QFN) will pay 28 cents per unit with 89% franking.

Betashares Global Quality Leaders ETF (ASX: QLTY) will pay 9 cents per unit.

The Betashares Australian Resources Sector ETF (ASX: QRE) will pay 11 cents per unit with 101% franking.

Betashares Global Uranium ETF (ASX: URNM) will pay 3 cents per unit.

The Betashares Australian Top 20 Equity Yield Maximiser Fund (ASX: YMAX) will pay 13 cents per unit with 31% franking.

Betashares Global Banks Currency Hedged (ASX: BNKS) will pay 11 cents per unit.

Betashares Global Energy Companies Currency Hedged ETF (ASX: FUEL) will pay 9 cents per unit.

The post Own MNRS or ARMR ETFs? Here's why it's a big day for you appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

They provide great diversification, and are an easy vehicle for gaining exposure to international shares.

The latest available data from Betashares shows inflows into ASX ETFs totalled $4.3 billion in November.

That was the fifth consecutive month of inflows above $4 billion.

Betashares says ASX ETFs now have a record $324.9 billion in funds under management, up 33.8% in 12 months.

Here are three ASX ETFs that provided great returns to investors last year.

3 ASX ETFs that produced excellent returns in 2025

Betashares Video Games and Esports ETF (ASX: GAME)

Last year, GAME ETF lifted 28% in value and delivered a total return, including dividends, of 32%.

GAME ETF closed out the year at $17.51 apiece.

The GAME ETF invests in 37 stocks.

The top holdings are Electronic Arts, NetEase, Take-Two Interactive Software, and Tencent.

GAME ETF seeks to track the performance of the Nasdaq CTA Global Video Games & Esports Index.

Most of its investments are in interactive home entertainment devices and facilities.

Other major allocations include interactive media and services, and leisure products.

The management fee is 0.57% per year.

Betashares Australian Resources Sector ETF (ASX: QRE)

In 2025, QRE ETF ascended 30% and delivered a total return of 34%.

QRE ETF finished the year at $8.81 per unit.

ASX QRE holds 43 ASX shares with a 34% weighting to BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP).

QRE also invests in gold, copper, lithium, mineral sands, rare earths producers, as well as a few energy shares.

The top holdings are BHP, Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO), Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS), and Fortescue Ltd (ASX: FMG).

The management fee is 0.34% per annum.

Global X Defence Tech ETF (ASX: DTEC)

Over 2025, DTEC ETF returned 64% and finished the year at $17.51 apiece.

That 64% return was all capital growth as the ETF has not yet paid a dividend since its launch in October 2024.

Global defence spending is soaring amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

This led to significant price growth for stocks in aerospace and defence last year.

Sara Pineros, a Quantitative Analyst at S&P Dow Jones Indices, said:

Aerospace & Defence ranked as the second-highest growth sector among the S&P Select Industries, posting a significant 46.8% increase, largely driven by rising geopolitical tensions worldwide.

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

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

The annual management fee is 0.5%.

The post 3 ASX ETFs that returned 32% to 64% in 2025 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Reflecting the miners' dominance, the S&P/ASX 300 Metal & Mining Index (ASX: XMM) rose 3.64% last week and the S&P/ASX All Ords Gold Index (ASX: XGD) lifted 1.41%, while the benchmark S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) weakened 0.11% to finish at 8,717.8 points.

Only four of the 11 market sectors finished the week in the green.

Let's recap.

Scores of ASX 200 mining shares reach 52-week highs

Ongoing strength in commodity prices boosted ASX 200 mining shares last week.

At the time of writing, the iron ore price is up 0.45% for the week at US$107.65 per tonne.

This helped send several ASX 200 iron ore shares to 52-week highs.

BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) shares reached $48.49, Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO) $154.75, and Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN) $58.64.

The Fortescue Ltd (ASX: FMG) share price didn't reach an annual high but increased 2.57% over the week to close at $22.71 on Friday.

Copper futures surged above US$6 per pound, a new record, which also supported BHP given it is now the world's largest producer.

Several ASX 200 copper shares also reached 52-week peaks, including the market's largest pure-play Sandfire Resources Ltd (ASX: SFR).

The Sandfire Resources share price hit an all-time record of $19.43, as did Capstone Copper Corp (ASX: CSC) shares at $15.89.

Lithium prices also surged, with the carbonate price streaking 16% higher for the week and 49% over the past month.

Unsurprisingly, ASX 200 lithium shares ripped, with many also setting new 52-week price milestones last week.

PLS Group Ltd (ASX: PLS) shares rose to $4.89 apiece, Liontown Ltd (ASX: LTR) hit $2.10, and IGO Ltd (ASX: IGO) reached $8.95.

ASX 200 rare earths shares increased on news that China will limit exports of rare earths to Japan.

Lynas Rare Earths Ltd (ASX: LYC) shares shot the lights out, ripping 15.38% to close the week at $14.10.

The Arafura Rare Earths Ltd (ASX: ARU) share price flew 9.26% to close at 30 cents per share.

What about gold?

The gold price rose 3% last week to above US$4,467 per ounce in late trading on Friday Australian time.

The market's largest ASX 200 gold share, Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) rose 1.19% to close at $24.72 on Friday.

The Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN) share price rose 1.1% to close at $12.82.

Newmont Corporation CDI (ASX: NEM) shares hit a record high of $162.45 apiece last week.

Vault Minerals Ltd (ASX: VAU) shares hit a 52-week high of $5.80, as did Regis Resources Ltd (ASX: RRL) shares at $7.84.

Gold and copper miner, Greatland Resources Ltd (ASX: GGP) lifted 9.09% over the week to close at $11.52.

The Greatland Resources share price reached a record high of $11.66 on Friday.

Silver continues its amazing run, up 5% over the week and 152% over the past 12 months.

This helped ASX 200 diversified miner South32 Ltd (ASX: S32) hit a 52-week high of $3.87 per share.

South32 is exposed to silver via its Cannington mine, which is one of the world's largest producers of silver and lead.

The rising aluminium price also supported South32 shares.

Aluminium gained 2.2% last week and is up 22% over the past year.

This also helped bauxite and alumina producer Alcoa Corporation CDI (ASX: AAI) hit a 52-week high of $94.31 last week.

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:

Final word on the week

Here at the Fool, we continued to dissect all the results of 2025 for your review last week.

We revealed the 5 best ASX 200 mining shares of 2025 for capital growth.

We also considered what $10,000 invested in the BetaShares Australian Resources Sector ETF (ASX: QRE) returned over the past year.

You might also be interested in the 5 top ASX 200 gold shares, the 12 best performing commodities, and the best sectors for dividends.

The post ASX 200 materials sector dominates as scores of mining shares hit new highs appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

This exchange-traded fund (ETF) provides broad exposure to ASX mining shares at a time when many major commodities are soaring.

Strong commodity prices led to the ASX 200 materials sector topping the 11 market sectors for capital growth last year.

The S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) rose by 31.71% and produced total returns, including dividends, of 36.21%.

In the first week of 2026, many ASX mining shares are resetting their 52-week highs as metal and mineral prices continue their run.

The big ones to watch are gold, silver, copper, and lithium, which have clocked 12-month gains of 66%, 160%, 36%, and 77%, respectively.

By investing in the QRE ETF, you are buying exposure to 43 ASX shares.

It's heavily weighted to diversified miner BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP), whose share price has lifted 20% over the past 12 months.

BHP, which has exposure to iron ore and copper and is the largest miner on the ASX, makes up 34% of QRE's investments.

QRE is also invested in gold, copper, lithium, mineral sands, rare earths, and alumina producers.

When we think about the 'resources sector', the mind naturally goes to ASX mining shares. But this ASX ETF is broader than that.

QRE ETF also holds a significant number of ASX energy stocks, including oil & gas producers, as well as uranium and coal miners.

Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) is the fund's third-largest holding at 6.4%.  

ASX utilities share Origin Energy Ltd (ASX: ORG) is also in the mix at 2.8%.

The ASX ETF pays distributions, or dividends, twice per year.

The management fee is 0.34% per annum, which is one of the lowest on the market.

Say you bought QRE ETF a year ago.

While ASX mining stocks have done well since then, energy shares have struggled.

So, how has this investment turned out for you?

What is your investment worth now?

On 8 January 2025, the QRE ETF closed at $6.73 apiece.

If you had put $10,000 into the QRE ETF then, it would have bought you 1,485 units (for $9,994.05).

There's been a capital gain of $2.25 per unit since then, which equates to $3,341.25 worth of capital growth.

Thus, your BetaShares Australian Resources Sector ETF holdings are now worth $13,335.

In terms of distributions, the QRE ETF paid 10.1811 cents per unit in July and will pay 10.6539 cents per unit on 19 January.

Altogether, that is just over $309 in annual income from your 1,485 QRE ETF units.

Miners and energy producers tend to pay fully-franked dividends, so the average franking on this ETF is high at 88%, amplifying your yield.

Total returns for the QRE ETF…

Your capital gain of $3,341.25 plus your distributions of $309 gives you a total return in dollar terms of $3,650.25.

Now remember, you invested $9,994.05 purchasing QRE ETF on 8 January last year.

This means you have received a total return, in percentage terms, of 36.5%.

While that's a 'wow' of a return, we must remember that mining and energy shares are volatile in nature.

We can see this in the long-run average annual total return after fees for this ASX ETF.

Since inception on 10 December 2010, QRE ETF has delivered an average annual total return after fees of 4.85%.

The post $10,000 invested in QRE ETF a year ago is now worth… appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

When you look at the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO), you notice it is heavily weighted towards sectors like financials (big banks) and materials/resource giants. 

In fact, these two sectors make up more than half of the ASX 200 in terms of market cap.

While it's important to have a diversified portfolio, investing in these markets can also capture strong returns when they outperform. 

If you are looking to ride the returns of Australia's largest sectors, here are some thematic ASX ETFs to consider. 

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

This ASX ETF offers exposure to the largest ASX-listed companies in the resources sector, including BHP, Rio Tinto, Woodside Petroleum and more.

Investors should be aware it is heavily weighted towards BHP Group (ASX: BHP) which makes up 33% of the fund. 

In total, it is made up of 43 holdings. 

A bet on Australian resources over the last 10 years has proved a strong investment. 

This ASX ETF is up more than 200% since January 2016. 

This includes a rise of more than 30% in the last 12 months. 

VanEck Vectors Australian Banks ETF (ASX: MVB)

Australian banks make up a massive part of the economy thanks to the dominance of the big four. 

This ASX ETF from VanEck offers a portfolio of ASX-listed banks and financial institutions in one trade. 

The fund is made up of 7 holdings: 

• Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) 
• National Australia Bank Limited (ASX: NAB)
• Westpac Banking Corporation (ASX: WBC) 
• Australia And New Zealand Banking Group (ASX:ANZ) 
• Macquarie Group Limited (ASX: MQG)
• Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Limited (ASX: BEN)
• Bank of Queensland (ASX: BOQ)

The fund has an almost equal weighting of 20% each for the big four banks. 

Essentially, these four make up 80% of the fund, with Macquarie representing a 17.5% weighting and the final two, smaller banks combining for a 2.6% weighting. 

The fund has risen 66% in the last 5 years. 

VanEck Vectors Australian Property ETF (ASX: MVA)

While real estate isn't one of the biggest sectors on the ASX, it remains a vital component of the Australian economy due to its role in investment, employment, and housing.

This ASX ETF from VanEck gives investors exposure to a diversified portfolio of Australian REITs.

A real estate investment trust (REIT) is a company that owns and operates property assets that typically produce income.

This fund from VanEck is made up of 13 holdings, and includes a 4% dividend yield.

It has risen 13% over the last year. 

The post Best ASX ETFs to target winning Aussie sectors in 2026 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Investors who own these Betashares ETFs below will receive their dividends on 19 January.

The ex-dividend date is today, and the record date is Monday.

How much in dividends will you receive?

Here are the dividends that investors will receive, rounded to the nearest cent, on 19 January.

The Betashares Australia 200 ETF (ASX: A200) will pay $1.15 per unit with 60% franking.

Betashares Australian Quality ETF (ASX: AQLT) will pay 47 cents per unit with 93% franking.

The Betashares Global Defence ETF (ASX: ARMR) will pay 32 cents per unit.

The Betashares Global Gold Miners Currency Hedged ETF (ASX: MNRS) will pay 3 cents per unit.

The Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF (ASX: ASIA) will pay 67 cents per unit.

Betashares S&P/ASX Australian Technology ETF (ASX: ATEC) will pay 6 cents per unit with 106% franking.

Betashares Diversified All Growth ETF (ASX: DHHF) will pay 30 cents per unit with 22% franking.

The Betashares Global Sustainability Leaders ETF (ASX: ETHI) will pay 4 cents per unit.

The Betashares Australian Sustainability Leaders ETF (ASX: FAIR) will pay 29 cents per unit with 65% franking.

More ASX ETFs paying dividends soon

The Betashares Geared Australian Equity Fund – Hedge Fund (ASX: GEAR) will pay 45 cents per unit with 225% franking.

The Betashares Australian Dividend Harvester Active ETF (ASX: HVST) will pay 6 cents per unit with 74% franking.

The Betashares S&P Australian Shares High Yield ETF (ASX: HYLD) will pay 12 cents per unit with 66% franking.

The Betashares Australian Financials Sector ETF (ASX: QFN) will pay 28 cents per unit with 89% franking.

Betashares Global Quality Leaders ETF (ASX: QLTY) will pay 9 cents per unit.

The Betashares Australian Resources Sector ETF (ASX: QRE) will pay 11 cents per unit with 101% franking.

Betashares Global Uranium ETF (ASX: URNM) will pay 3 cents per unit.

The Betashares Australian Top 20 Equity Yield Maximiser Fund (ASX: YMAX) will pay 13 cents per unit with 31% franking.

Betashares Global Banks Currency Hedged (ASX: BNKS) will pay 11 cents per unit.

Betashares Global Energy Companies Currency Hedged ETF (ASX: FUEL) will pay 9 cents per unit.

Want to reinvest your ASX ETF dividends?

A distribution reinvestment plan (DRP) is available for eligible Betashares ETFs.

Betashares' registrar, MUFG Corporate Markets, must receive your DRP election by 5pm AEST on 6 January.

The post Own Betashares ASX ETFs? Here's your next dividend 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.

The Australian Taxation Office just last week said that more than two million Australian taxpayers were yet to lodge their tax returns, and gave them a nudge that they needed to get it done, or at least be registered with their tax agent by October 31 to avoid possible penalties.

ATO Assistant Commissioner Rob Thomson said that regardless of how people lodge their returns, October 31 was a crucial date.

As he said:

If you're lodging yourself, you need to have completed and submitted your return by 31 October. If you plan to lodge through a registered tax professional, you must be on their books by 31 October.

Personally, I usually can't wait to lodge my tax return. I usually get something back and it's a great opportunity to have a think about what I can invest it into.

This year, like many others, I'm thinking ETFs – an increasingly popular, low-effort way to diversify your holdings and hopefully lock in some good returns.

I've had a look at a few on offer, and while this is certainly not financial advice – please do your own research and get advice on what best suits your needs – these are the ones which have piqued my interest.

Betashares Australian Small Companies Select ETF (ASX: SMLL)

Over the years as a business reporter, I've seen plenty of smaller companies grow into larger entities. Adelaide company Codan Ltd (ASX: CDA) is a great example, with a market cap now of more than $6 billion. Small and medium-sized companies, while they sometimes lack the scale and market dominance of their larger competitors, also have more room to grow, and smaller news events can move the needle much more. This ETF has delivered a five-year annualised return of 10% and 15.9% over three years, and personally, I like small caps for their ability to surprise.

Betashares Australian Resources Sector ETF (ASX: QRE)

There's something in the air when it comes to commodities at the moment. While iron ore has its issues with China pricing and supply, rare earths are running hot, gold investors are killing it, and governments are increasingly concerned about the sovereign supply of resources. While with a 20.57% return over the past six months, this ETF is running hot, and I just can't go past the idea that Australian miners are still a good investment.

Betashares Australia 200 ETF (ASX: A200)

Nothing beats diversification, right? And this ETF claims to be the world's lowest-cost Australian shares index ETF, with management costs of just 0.04%. This ETF tracks the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) as the name suggests, and pays out distributions quarterly, which can be reinvested. If you like the Australian market, there's nothing not to like here.

Betashares Crypto Innovators ETF (ASX: CRYP)

This ETF is a bit more of a gamble on an emerging industry, and one I'd place in the higher risk category in my mind. As the name suggests, the ETF "provides exposure to global companies at the forefront of the dynamic crypto economy''. But with high risk comes high reward, and the performance to date has been impressive, returning 84% over a year and 47.8% over three years, annualised.

As always, do your own research, and happy investing!

The post As a key tax deadline approaches, here are four ETFs I'd consider investing my tax return into appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Global presence

Sometimes, as investors, we tend to overcomplicate things. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Largest exposure by sector allocation: 

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

This year, it has risen an impressive 19.85%. 

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

VanEck Australian Resources ETF (ASX: MVR)

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

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

Its largest weighting by company: 

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

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

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

Many investors are familiar with how the world's richest, most talented, and most famous investors made their fortunes. 

While it's certainly interesting to discover how the likes of Warren Buffett, Charlie Munger, and Peter Lynch became incredibly wealthy, it's not always the most relatable. 

Instead, it can be incredibly motivating to learn how average Australians became millionaires through investing in ASX shares. 

A recent article in the Australian Financial Review unpacked the journey of an investor who built a $1.5 million portfolio in 5 years.

How did he do it?

Five years ago, 52-year-old Melbourne-based investor Richard Ye set out to build a $1 million portfolio. 

After a 25-year career in finance, Ye had built a cash pile of $250,000, which was his starting balance. 

He committed to making regular contributions to his portfolio. 

Instead of relying on financial planners and advisors (which he estimated would have cost him more than $22,500 a year), he spends just $1,800 annually on investment research.

Dollar-cost averaging with a twist

Ye primarily relied on dollar-cost averaging to deploy his money. 

This method aims to take the guesswork out of investing. Instead of trying to 'time the market' and make short-term predictions, adherents of this strategy invest consistently and regularly, regardless of market sentiment.

Very few investors are able to time the market. It can be unpredictable and irrational. Dollar cost averaging suits investors such as Ye with long investment horizons. 

However, Ye didn't follow this strategy blindly. There was a twist.

He paused investing when a commonly watched technical indicator showed the S&P 500 Index (SP: .INX) as being overvalued.

Ye told the Australian Financial Review:

If the S&P 500 is a certain percentage higher than the 50-day and 200-day moving average, I will pause for a while until the moving average comes closer.

If it is a bear market, it is easiest for me. But if it is a bull market, sometimes I will spend more time thinking about investing. I only buy relatively low. I don't necessarily sell, I just pause my investment.

What does he invest in?

Another relatable part of Ye's story is the composition of his portfolio. 

His strategy is refreshingly simple. 

He currently owns five exchange-traded funds (ETFs), which are a combination of index funds and thematic ETFs. 

They are: two equally weighted ETFs that track the US and Australian markets, as well as the Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ), the Betashares Australian Resources Sector ETF (ASX: QRE), and the Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF (ASX: HACK).

Ye also directly owns Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ: GOOG) and ASX Ltd (ASX: ASX).

Low-cost brokerage allows Ye to make regular investments into these funds while keeping expenses down.

Future ambitions

Ye has already surpassed his goal of becoming an ASX millionaire. 

Now, he is aiming to reach $5 million before the age of 67. 

He estimates this would allow him to generate an annual income of between $300,000 and $500,000 for his retirement years.

Foolish Takeaway

Many investors assume they need to invest in 10-bagger investments to become an ASX millionaire. However, Ye's story shows that a 'get rich' slow approach can get you there, as long as you're consistent and rational.

The post Lessons from a self-made ASX millionaire appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

How about the new Betashares Global Defence ETF (ASX: ARMR), which only began trading in October last year?

If you're invested in any Betashares exchange-traded funds (ETFs), today you'll be rewarded with your next lot of dividends.

Here is how much you'll receive in your bank account by the close of business on Wednesday.

Dividends for A200, NDQ and ARMR ETFs

The A200 ETF tracks the benchmark S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) before fees.

It provides exposure to Australia's top listed companies, including Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA), BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP), and CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL).

A200 will pay $1.07576468 per unit with 56.21% franking.

ASX NDQ tracks the NASDAQ-100 Index (NASDAQ: NDX) before fees.

This ETF provides exposure to global household names like Amazon (NASDAQ: AMZN), Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL), Meta Platforms (NASDAQ: META), Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA), and Tesla (NASDAQ: TSLA).

The ASX NDQ will pay 49.021982 cents per unit.

The ARMR ETF seeks to track the VettaFi Global Defence Leaders Index before fees.

ARMR provides exposure to up to 60 companies that derive more than 50% of their revenue from defence equipment or services.

The ETF's top holdings are Rheinmetall AG (ETR: RHM), Palantir Technologies (NASDAQ: PLTR), and BAE Systems PLC (FRA: BSP).

ARMR ETF will pay a maiden dividend of 53.546615 cents per unit.

What about other Betashares ASX ETFs?

Here is a summary of the dividends that people invested in this selection of Betashares ETFs will receive today.

Betashares Australian Quality ETF (ASX: AQLT) will pay 78.670012 cents per unit with 45.7% franking.

The Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF (ASX: ASIA) will pay 2.7997434 cents per unit.

Betashares S&P/ASX Australian Technology ETF (ASX: ATEC) will pay 62.133156 cents per unit with 9.65% franking.

Betashares Diversified All Growth ETF (ASX: DHHF) will pay 27.862004 cents per unit with 21.31% franking.

The Betashares Global Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF (ASX: RBTZ) will pay 28.781362 cents per unit.

Betashares Climate Change Innovation ETF (ASX: ERTH) will pay 4.524139 cents per unit.

The Betashares Global Sustainability Leaders ETF (ASX: ETHI) will pay 30.660703 cents per unit.

The Betashares Australian Sustainability Leaders ETF (ASX: FAIR) will pay 46.17632 cents per unit with 31.18% franking.

Here's a few more…

The Betashares Video Games and Esports ETF (ASX: GAME) will pay 14.695966 cents per unit.

The Betashares Geared Australian Equity Fund – Hedge Fund (ASX: GEAR) will pay 18.921508 cents per unit with 389.47% franking.

Betashares Geared U.S. Equity Fund – Currency Hedged (ASX: GGUS) will pay 87.057737 cents per unit.

The Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF (ASX: HACK) will pay 43.465958 cents per unit.

The Betashares Australian Financials Sector ETF (ASX: QFN) will pay 21.176497 cents per unit with 57.69% franking.

Betashares Global Quality Leaders ETF (ASX: QLTY) will pay 67.851406 cents per unit.

The Betashares Australian Resources Sector ETF (ASX: QRE) will pay 10.181135 cents per unit with 82.43% franking.

Betashares Global Uranium ETF (ASX: URNM) will pay 19.732154 cents per unit.

The Betashares Australian Top 20 Equity Yield Maximiser Fund (ASX: YMAX) will pay 13.102915 cents per unit with 40.39% franking.

The post Own ASX A200, NDQ, or ARMR ETFs? It's dividend payday for you! appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

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

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

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

BetaShares Australian Resources Sector ETF (ASX: QRE)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The fund is down 9.73% over the past year. 

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

Vaneck Vectors Global Clean Energy ETF (ASX: CLNE)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Investors who own these Betashares ETFs below will receive their dividends on 16 July.

According to the schedule, the ex-dividend date is 1 July, and the record date is 2 July.

Dividend pay day for Betashares ETF investors

Here is a summary of the dividend amounts that people invested in this selection of Betashares ETFs will receive on 16 July.

The Betashares Australia 200 ETF (ASX: A200) will pay $1.07576468 per unit with 56.21% franking.

Betashares NASDAQ 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ) will pay 49.021982 cents per unit.

Betashares Australian Quality ETF (ASX: AQLT) will pay 78.670012 cents per unit with 45.7% franking.

The Betashares Global Defence ETF (ASX: ARMR) will pay 53.546615 cents per unit.

The Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF (ASX: ASIA) will pay 2.7997434 cents per unit.

Betashares S&P/ASX Australian Technology ETF (ASX: ATEC) will pay 62.133156 cents per unit with 9.65% franking.

Betashares Diversified All Growth ETF (ASX: DHHF) will pay 27.862004 cents per unit with 21.31% franking.

The Betashares Global Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF (ASX: RBTZ) will pay 28.781362 cents per unit.

Betashares Climate Change Innovation ETF (ASX: ERTH) will pay 4.524139 cents per unit.

The Betashares Global Sustainability Leaders ETF (ASX: ETHI) will pay 30.660703 cents per unit.

The Betashares Australian Sustainability Leaders ETF (ASX: FAIR) will pay 46.17632 cents per unit with 31.18% franking.

Nope, not done yet!

The Betashares Video Games and Esports ETF (ASX: GAME) will pay 14.695966 cents per unit.

The Betashares Geared Australian Equity Fund – Hedge Fund (ASX: GEAR) will pay 18.921508 cents per unit with 389.47% franking.

Betashares Geared U.S. Equity Fund – Currency Hedged (ASX: GGUS) will pay 87.057737 cents per unit.

The Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF (ASX: HACK) will pay 43.465958 cents per unit.

The Betashares Australian Financials Sector ETF (ASX: QFN) will pay 21.176497 cents per unit with 57.69% franking.

Betashares Global Quality Leaders ETF (ASX: QLTY) will pay 67.851406 cents per unit.

The Betashares Australian Resources Sector ETF (ASX: QRE) will pay 10.181135 cents per unit with 82.43% franking.

Betashares Global Uranium ETF (ASX: URNM) will pay 19.732154 cents per unit.

The Betashares Australian Top 20 Equity Yield Maximiser Fund (ASX: YMAX) will pay 13.102915 cents per unit with 40.39% franking.

Want to reinvest your ASX ETF dividends?

A distribution reinvestment plan (DRP) is available for all of these Betashares ETFs.

Betashares must receive your DRP election by 5pm AEST on 3 July.

The post Dividend alert: What Betashares ASX ETFs are paying and when appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The simplest and most well-known are those that track the performance of indexes such as the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) and the S&P 500 Index (SP: .INX) in the US.

Other ASX ETFs track certain sectors, such as the Australian Resources Sector ETF (ASX: QRE) and VanEck Australian Banks ETF (ASX: MVB).

Many ASX ETFs adopt certain strategies. For example, the top five Aussie shares ETFs for total returns in 2023 all had environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) strategies.

All of these ASX ETFs have a manager running them and their fees depend on how much work is involved.

You don't have to do much to manage an index fund, for example.

Every quarter the index is officially updated, and the ETF managers follow suit by adding or removing companies and rejigging the weightings in accordance with each company's market capitalisation.

This is all pretty simple but some ETFs charge more than others for this service.

This is why it's important to check the management expense ratio (MER) that an ETF charges before buying it.

Bear in mind that ASX ETFs with strategies will generally charge higher fees.

This is because the managers are selecting stocks on your behalf, which requires more skill and expertise.

As a general rule, the lower the management fee the better because those fees eat into your returns.

While past performance is no guarantee of future performance, it's worth looking at the history of all the ASX ETFs you're interested in and comparing the fees to determine which funds offer the best value.

We reviewed more than 300 ASX ETFs listed on CommSec to find those with the lowest MERs.

10 ASX ETFs with the lowest management fees

BetaShares Global Sustainability Leaders ETF-Currency Hedged (ASX: HETH)

The BetaShares Global Sustainability Leaders ETF-Currency Hedged invests in BetaShares Global Sustainability Leaders ETF (ASX: ETHI) with the currency exposure hedged back to the Australian dollar.

ETHI invests in companies deemed to be 'climate leaders'.

The HETH ETF share price is currently $14.17, up 22.37% over the past 12 months.

Over the past five years, it has risen 41.70%.

MER: 0.03%.

BetaShares Global Quality Leaders ETF-Currency Hedged (ASX: HQLT)

The BetaShares Global Quality Leaders ETF-Currency Hedged invests in the BetaShares Global Quality Leaders ETF (ASX: QLTY) with the currency exposure hedged back to the Australian dollar.

QLTY holds 150 global companies (ex-Australia) ranked in order of a quality score. The scores are based on a combined ranking of four key factors – return on equity (ROE), debt-to-capital, cash flow generation and earnings stability.

The HQLT ETF share price is currently $29.42, up 28.58% over the past 12 months.

Over the past five years, it has risen 49.49%.

MER: 0.03%.

VanEck MSCI International Value (AUD Hedged) ETF (ASX: HVLU)

The VanEck MSCI International Value (AUD Hedged) ETF holds 250 international developed-market large-caps and mid-caps with high scores as calculated by MSCI and returns hedged into Australian dollars.

The HVLU ETF share price is currently $27.42, up 14.49% since inception in November 2023.

MER: 0.03%.

VanEck MSCI International Small Companies Quality (AUD Hedged) ETF (ASX: QHSM)

The VanEck MSCI International Small Companies Quality (AUD Hedged) ETF invests in 150 international developed-market small-cap quality growth shares with returns hedged into Australian dollars.

The QHSM ETF share price is currently $30.08, up 26.02% since inception in November 2023.

MER: 0.03%.

Vanguard US Total Market Shares Index ETF (ASX: VTS)

The Vanguard US Total Market Shares Index ETF is an index-based ETF that tracks the performance of the whole United States stock market, incorporating more than 3,700 American US companies.

The VTS ETF share price is currently $389.92, up 27.68% over the past 12 months.

Over the past five years, it has risen 87.89%.

MER: 0.03%.

BetaShares Australia 200 ETF (ASX: A200)

The BetaShares Australia 200 ETF is an index-based ETF that tracks the performance of the ASX 200.

The A200 ETF share price is currently $130.47, up 7.30% over the past 12 months.

Over the past five years, it has risen 24.78%.

MER: 0.04%.

iShares S&P 500 ETF (ASX: IVV)

The iShares S&P 500 ETF is an index-based ETF that tracks the performance of the 500 largest US companies comprising the S&P 500.

The IVV ETF share price is currently $52.45, up 27.71% over the past 12 months.

Over the past five years, it has risen 92.97%.

MER: 0.04%.

SPDR S&P/ASX 200 ESG (ASX: E200)

The SPDR S&P/ASX 200 ESG invests in ASX 200 shares excluding companies involved in military contracting, small arms and tobacco, oil and thermal coal above a certain threshold.

The E200 ETF share price is currently $24.82, up 4.99% over the past 12 months.

It has risen 22.33% since its inception in August 2020.

MER: 0.05%.

iShares Core S&P/ASX 200 ETF (ASX: IOZ)

The iShares Core S&P/ASX 200 ETF tracks the performance of the ASX 200 Accumulation Index.

The IOZ ETF share price is currently $31.49, up 7.07% over the past 12 months.

Over the past five years, it has risen 22.96%.

MER: 0.05%.

SPDR S&P/ASX 200 (ASX: STW)

Launched in August 2001, the SPDR S&P/ASX 200 was Australia's first listed ETF. It tracks the performance of the ASX 200 index.

The STW ETF share price is currently $70.47, up 6.50% over the past 12 months.

Over the past five years, it has risen 21.06%.

MER: 0.05%.

The post 10 ASX ETFs with the lowest management fees and why it matters appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Well, today we're asking ASX broker Morgan Stanley (MS).

Morgan Stanley's Kevin Dermers recently released a report on how to invest in a high-inflation world. And it makes for some interesting reading.

Morgan Stanley: How to beat inflation

Many investors might assume that just investing in ASX shares is enough to counter the effects of inflation. But rising prices affect different companies in different ways. And some are more immune to its corrosiveness than others. In its report, MS tells us this:

Persistent inflation and a resilient economy could spur the Federal Reserve to keep interest rates elevated, which could weigh on some stocks…

Stocks and funds that offer investors exposure to "real assets"—that is, tangible assets like infrastructure, real estate and natural resources, whose value is linked to their physical attributes—may be appealing in an environment of solid economic growth, persistent inflation and higher interest rates.

It's these 'real assets' like infrastructure, property and commodities that MS argues are the key to beating inflation through investing. This is due to three reasons.

Firstly, real assets allow investors to hedge against inflation as they are able to consistently pass on rising costs to their users.

Secondly, real assets can deliver an all-weather income stream that can deliver cash flow regardless of the economic conditions.

Third, real assets can offer investors some portfolio diversification benefits, as their valuations are usually uncorrelated to other assets including ASX shares.

How to invest in real assets on the ASX

So how exactly does one invest in real assets? Well, MS does note this:

It is possible for investors to hold real assets in their portfolios – for instance, by purchasing gold or buying a share of a building – but it can be more difficult and potentially more risky than purchasing stocks or funds that offer exposure to real assets

So with that in mind, let's discuss a few ASX options here. The most obvious is using exchange-traded funds (ETFs). As investors would probably be aware, there are a plethora of different ASX ETFs that cover different corners of the market. As luck would have it, there are many options to choose from if you are looking for infrastructure, property or commodity investments.

With infrastructure, there are a few ASX ETFs that offer sole coverage of these investments. Two examples would be the Vanguard Global Infrastructure Index ETF (ASX: VBLD) and the VanEck FTSE Global Infrastructure ETF (ASX: IFRA). Both of these funds hold companies that operate assets like pipelines, toll roads, railroads and electrical poles and wires.

Turning to property, there is also a bevy of options to choose from. The Vanguard Australian Property Securities Index ETF (ASX: VAP), which holds stakes in various real estate investment trusts (REITs) is one possibility. Others include buying REIT units yourself, or else another ETF like the iShares Core FTSE Global Property ex-Australia ETF (ASX: GLPR).

The challenges of beating inflation using natural resources

Commodities and natural resources are a tricky one to discuss though. As we all know, there are countless commodities out there that are vital to a healthy economy. But not all of these function in the same way. Iron ore and oil are notoriously cyclical, while precious metals like gold and silver have markets that move on entirely different factors. But MS argues that natural resources are still a great place to look if you want to invest to beat inflation.

So what's the solution? Well, you could start with an ASX-wide resources ETF like the BetaShares Australian Resources Sector ETF (ASX: QRE). This fund invests in all of the ASX's major mining and energy companies, such as BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP), South32 Ltd (ASX: S32) and Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS).

You could also combine several different commodity-based ETFs. For example, the BetaShares Crude Oil Index ETF (ASX: OOO) tracks oil futures, the Global X Copper Miners ETF (ASX: WIRE) tracks copper companies, the VanEck Gold Miners ETF (ASX: GDX) tracks, well gold miners, and the Global X Green Metal Miners ETF (ASX: GMTL) allows for exposure to future-facing commodities like lithium, rare earths, nickel and cobalt.

There's also agriculture to consider. Food investments have their own cyclicalities to worry about, with factors like weather and rainfall playing a major role.

But there are ETFs that can allow ASX investors exposure to food-producing investments too. One such example is the BetaShares Global Agricultural Companies ETF (ASX: FOOD).

This fund holds a portfolio of global shares that grow, make, process, package and distribute food products all over the world. It also includes companies like Deere & Company that manufacture farming equipment.

The post Here's how Morgan Stanley invests to beat inflation appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.