With so many options on offer, I think it could make sense to focus on funds that tap into major global markets and long-term growth trends, while still providing diversification.

Here are three Vanguard ETFs I think stand out for Australian investors in 2026.

Vanguard Global Technology Index ETF (ASX: VTEK)

The VTEK ETF offers Aussies a targeted way to invest in one of the most influential sectors in the global economy.

Technology continues to shape how businesses operate and how consumers interact with products and services. Areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, and digital platforms are still expanding, and the companies leading these trends are continuing to invest heavily.

This ETF provides exposure to around 300 global technology stocks, giving investors access to a wide range of businesses across developed and emerging markets. It is also structured with caps on individual holdings, which helps manage concentration risk.

The recent tech selloff has made valuations more attractive in this part of the market. And with long-term drivers still in place, now could be a good time to consider this ETF.

Vanguard S&P 500 ETF (ASX: V500)

The V500 ETF is one of the simplest ways for Aussies to gain exposure to the US market.

It tracks the S&P 500 index, which includes 500 of the largest listed companies in the United States. These businesses operate across sectors such as technology, healthcare, industrials, financials, and consumer goods.

What I like about this ETF is the balance it provides. It offers exposure to high-quality stocks with strong earnings power, while also spreading that exposure across a broad range of industries.

Over time, the US market has been a consistent driver of global returns, supported by innovation and scale. I believe this can continue over the long term.

For Australian investors, the Vanguard S&P 500 ETF also provides diversification away from the local market, which is more concentrated in financials and resources.

Vanguard All-World ex-US Shares Index ETF (ASX: VEU)

The VEU ETF complements US exposure by covering the rest of the world.

It includes holdings across Europe, Asia, and other regions (except the US). This creates access to economies that are growing at different rates and driven by different factors.

That diversification can be valuable over time. Different regions can perform well at different stages of the cycle, and the Vanguard All-World ex-US Shares Index ETF captures that variation across a large number of companies and industries.

It also provides exposure to emerging markets, which can add another layer of growth potential as those economies continue to develop.

Foolish takeaway

When investing in ETFs, I think it makes sense to combine exposures that can work together over time.

The VTEK ETF provides access to long-term technology trends, the V500 ETF offers broad exposure to leading US companies, and the VEU ETF adds diversification across the rest of the world.

Together, they create a simple framework that can capture growth across multiple regions and sectors, which is what I look for when investing for the long term.

The post 3 excellent Vanguard ETFs for Australian investors in 2026 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Fresh analysis from the team at Betashares has laid out the roadmap for a best and worst-case scenario this week. 

Global equities trending up

International stocks rose further last week, reflecting hopes around US-Iran peace talks.

Global equity markets have now staged a three-week rebound on peace-talk hopes. The S&P 500 Index (SP: .INX) is now trading above the levels prevailing just before the Iran war began.

According to Betashares, US stocks fell the least during the initial sell-off and have so far rebounded the hardest, with the NASDAQ-100 Index (NASDAQ: NDX) ending last week 6.9% above its 27 February weekly close.

Interestingly, while the NASDAQ-100 and S&P 500 continued to rise, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) dipped 0.15% last week.

Betashares Chief Economist David Bassanese said in a release today that, in theory, a two-week ceasefire deal was supposed to have included a reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. 

But within 24 hours of saying the Strait was open, Iran said it was closed again – due to the US' own blockade of Iranian-linked ships. 

At the time of writing, there's news of the US seizing an Iranian ship, for which Iran has vowed retaliation. Iran has also denied US reports suggesting talks were set to resume.  

Suffice to say confusion reigns supreme! If there's one guiding light for markets, it's the idea that the longer the war drags on and the higher oil prices go, the greater the political pressure on President Trump to cut a deal. In short, in TACO we trust – though patience is being tested.

The week ahead

Betashares commentary said this week we are facing a best and worst-case scenario.

• The worst-case scenario is Iranian attacks on US military ships, potentially even sinking one with casualties. That could spark an "all bets are off" resumption of US/Israel missile strikes, potentially including Iranian energy infrastructure, which in turn could spark Iranian attacks on energy and water infrastructure across the Middle East.
• The best-case scenario is no tit-for-tat ship attacks and an agreement to hold more talks. 

It will be worth keeping track of technology shares here in Australia after a strong rebound last week. 

At the time of writing, the S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) is up a further 1% today, after a massive rally last week.

How to target these sectors

For investors who expect the S&P 500 and/or NASDAQ-100 Index to keep rumbling ahead, there are several ASX ETFs that offer exposure: 

• iShares S&P 500 ETF (ASX: IVV)
• Vanguard S&P 500 US Shares Index ETF (ASX: V500)
• BetaShares NASDAQ 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ)

Meanwhile, if you expect Aussie tech to keep rising, the Betashares S&P ASX Australian Technology ETF (ASX: ATEC) is worth considering. 

The post Best and worst case scenarios this week for global equities: Expert appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

This includes investors who hold the most popular ASX ETF in the market, the Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS).

Investors participating in the distribution reinvestment plan (DRP) for any of these ASX ETFs will receive their new allocations today.

Here are the final distribution amounts for investors receiving cash dividends, and the DRP prices for those who are reinvesting.

Own Vanguard ETFs? Here's how much you'll get today

VAS ETF, which tracks the performance of the S&P/ASX 300 Index (ASX: XKO), will pay 84.788 cents per unit. The DRP price is $40.5596.

Vanguard Australian Shares High Yield ETF (ASX: VHY), which tracks the FTSE Australia High Dividend Yield Index, will pay 81.1358 cents per unit. The DRP price is $81.548.

Vanguard Australian Fixed Interest Index ETF (ASX: VAF) will pay 29.4897 cents per unit. This ASX ETF tracks the Bloomberg AusBond Composite 0+ Yr Index. The DRP price is $44.9409.

The Vanguard Australian Property Securities Index ETF (ASX: VAP) will pay 50.5047 cents per unit. This ASX ETF allows investors exposure to bricks and mortar via the S&P/ASX 300 A-REIT Index. The DRP price is $83.3674.

What about ETFs holding international shares?

Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS) is the largest exchange-traded fund holding diversified international shares on the ASX. It provides exposure to 1,500 stocks in developed nations ex-Australia.

ASX VGS will pay 39.4131 cents per unit in dividends. The DRP price is $143.2044.

The Vanguard Diversified High Growth Index ETF (ASX: VDHG) will pay 64.6897 cents per unit. This ASX ETF provides exposure to 16,000 ASX and international shares. The DRP price is $70.7673.

Vanguard FTSE Europe Shares ETF (ASX: VEQ), which tracks the FTSE Developed Europe All Cap Index (with net dividends reinvested) in Australian dollars, will pay 27.0768 cents per unit. The DRP price is $85.3474.

The Vanguard MSCI International Small Companies Index ETF (ASX: VISM), which tracks the MSCI World ex-Australia Small Cap Index (with net dividends reinvested) in Australian dollars, will pay 176.7237 cents per unit. The DRP price is $70.6349.

Vanguard Ethically Conscious International Shares Index ETF (ASX: VESG) will pay 43.9277 cents per unit. This ASX ETF tracks the FTSE Developed ex Australia Choice Index (with net dividends reinvested) in Australian dollars. The DRP price is $102.14.

Vanguard S&P 500 US Shares Index ETF (ASX: V500) tracks the US benchmark S&P 500 Index (SP: .INX).

ASX V500 will pay 2.6468 cents per unit in dividends. The DRP price is $48.9889.

The post Vanguard ETF dividends to be paid today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

For me, the focus is not on finding something new or complicated. It is about selecting funds that can play a clear role in a portfolio and hold up over time.

Vanguard has built its reputation around low-cost, diversified investing, which is why I often find myself coming back to its range.

Here are five Vanguard ETFs I think are worth considering this month.

Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS)

The VAS ETF is one of the simplest ways to gain exposure to the Australian share market.

It tracks a broad index that includes large, mid, and smaller companies. That means you are not just relying on the big banks and miners, even though they still make up a meaningful portion.

You also get exposure to businesses like BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP), Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA), CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL), as well as smaller names such as AMP Ltd (ASX: AMP), Collins Foods Ltd (ASX: CKF), and Appen Ltd (ASX: APX).

With a low fee and a dividend yield just under 3%, I think it remains a strong core holding for long-term investors.

Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS)

The VGS ETF provides exposure to developed markets outside Australia.

It includes companies across the US, Europe, and other major economies, which helps diversify away from the local market.

What I like is the scale. You are getting access to around 1,300 companies across a wide range of industries. This includes technology, healthcare, and consumer sectors, which are less represented on the ASX.

For me, this is a straightforward way to add global diversification.

Vanguard FTSE Asia Ex-Japan Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAE)

The VAE ETF adds a different regional tilt.

It focuses on Asian markets, including China, Taiwan, India, and South Korea. These economies are at different stages of development, which creates a mix of growth opportunities.

What I like is how this ETF complements broader global exposure. It captures areas that are not always heavily weighted in global indices, particularly emerging markets and regional leaders in manufacturing and technology.

Over time, I think that diversification can be valuable.

Vanguard S&P 500 US Shares Index ETF (ASX: V500)

Another ETF I would consider buying is the new V500 ETF. It provides direct exposure to the US market through the S&P 500.

This is one of the most widely followed indices in the world, and it includes many of the largest and most influential companies globally.

What I like here is the simplicity. You are gaining access to a broad mix of industries, from technology and healthcare to financials and consumer businesses, all within a single fund.

The recent pullback in US markets has also made entry points a bit more attractive than they were previously, in my view.

Vanguard Global Technology Index ETF (ASX: VTEK)

Lastly, the VTEK ETF offers a more focused exposure.

It tracks a global technology index, giving access to around 300 companies involved in areas like software, semiconductors, and digital infrastructure.

This is a higher-growth segment of the market, but also one that can be more volatile.

What I find appealing is the global nature of the fund. It is not just concentrated in one country, which reflects how innovation is happening across multiple regions.

For investors looking to tilt toward technology, I think it is an efficient way to do it.

Foolish takeaway

Vanguard ETFs are designed to be simple, diversified, and cost-effective. That does not mean every fund will suit every investor, but I think there is a clear role for each of these.

Whether it is broad Australian exposure, global diversification, regional growth, US market access, or a technology tilt, these ETFs offer different ways to build on an existing portfolio or start putting money to work.

The post 5 Vanguard ETFs for Aussies to buy this month appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

After recent volatility, I think it makes sense to look at where long-term opportunities still exist, rather than getting caught up in short-term market moves.

For me, exchange-traded funds (ETFs) are one of the simplest ways to do that. They provide broad exposure, reduce stock-specific risk, and allow you to lean into themes that can play out over many years.

Here are three Vanguard ETFs I would be comfortable buying in April.

Vanguard FTSE Asia ex-Japan Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAE)

One area I think is often underrepresented in portfolios is Asia.

The region is home to some of the most important economies in the world, yet many investors remain heavily weighted toward Australia and the United States.

The VAE ETF offers a way to rebalance that.

It provides exposure to large and influential companies across markets like China, Taiwan, India, and South Korea. These are economies that are continuing to evolve, supported by industrial growth, rising consumption, and increasing technological capability.

What I like about this ETF is the diversity within the region.

It is not a single-country bet. It is a collection of different growth stories, from semiconductor manufacturing to digital platforms and financial services.

Over time, I think that kind of exposure can complement a more traditional portfolio.

Vanguard S&P 500 US Shares Index ETF (ASX: V500)

The United States remains one of the most important drivers of global equity returns.

Even after a strong run over many years, I still see reasons to maintain exposure.

The V500 ETF tracks the S&P 500 index, giving access to 500 of the largest companies in the US across a wide range of industries.

What stands out to me here is the breadth. This is not just a technology story. It includes healthcare, financials, consumer brands, and industrial leaders. That creates a more balanced exposure to the US economy.

The recent pullback, with similar funds like the iShares S&P 500 ETF down from their highs, has also made valuations a bit less stretched than they were previously.

For long-term investors, I think maintaining exposure to this market remains important.

Vanguard Global Technology Index ETF (ASX: VTEK)

Technology continues to shape how the global economy operates. Having exposure to it could be a smart long-term move.

The VTEK ETF focuses on around 300 technology stocks across both developed and emerging markets. That includes not just well-known US names, but also companies in other regions that are playing key roles in areas like semiconductors, software, and digital infrastructure.

I see this ETF as a way to capture innovation more directly.

It is more concentrated than a broad market fund, which means it can be more volatile. But it also offers more targeted exposure to a sector that I think will remain central to growth over the long term.

The global nature of the fund is also important. It reflects the fact that innovation is not limited to a single country.

Foolish takeaway

ETFs can play different roles within a portfolio. The VAE ETF provides exposure to a region with long-term structural growth potential, the V500 ETF offers broad access to one of the most influential equity markets in the world, and the VTEK ETF adds a more focused tilt toward global technology and innovation.

Each brings something different, and I think that combination can help build a portfolio that is both diversified and positioned for the future.

The post Why I'd buy these excellent Vanguard ETFs in April appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

They give investors access to many world-class businesses and companies with strong long-term growth potential.

Here's why I would be seriously considering them this week.

Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS)

I would start with a core allocation to the Australian market through the Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF.

It provides exposure to a broad range of Australian shares, from large caps like BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) and Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) through to mid and smaller companies like Temple & Webster Ltd (ASX: TPW) and Siteminder Ltd (ASX: SDR).

I like the balance it offers between income and growth, as well as the benefit of franking credits. It is not the most exciting ASX ETF, but I think it is one of the most dependable.

Vanguard S&P 500 US Shares Index ETF (ASX: V500)

Next, I would want meaningful exposure to the United States through the Vanguard S&P 500 US Shares Index ETF.

In my view, it is hard to ignore the long-term strength of the US market.

This ETF gives access to 500 of the largest companies in the world's biggest economy, including global leaders across technology, healthcare, and consumer sectors.

I see this as a key growth driver in the portfolio, and a way to diversify away from Australia's relatively concentrated market.

VanEck MSCI International Quality ETF (ASX: QUAL)

While broad exposure is important, I also like having a tilt toward quality.

That is where the VanEck MSCI International Quality ETF comes in.

This ETF focuses on stocks with strong returns on equity, stable earnings, and low financial leverage. I think that kind of discipline can be particularly valuable during periods of volatility.

For me, this is about increasing the overall quality of the portfolio without having to pick individual global stocks.

Vanguard FTSE Asia Ex-Japan Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAE)

I would also include the Vanguard FTSE Asia Ex-Japan Shares Index ETF.

I believe Asia will play an increasingly important role in global economic growth over the coming decades.

This ETF provides access to a wide range of markets, including China, India, Taiwan, and South Korea. It adds a different set of growth drivers compared to the US and Australia.

It can be more volatile, but over the long term, I think that growth potential is worth having in the portfolio.

BetaShares Global Cybersecurity ETF (ASX: HACK)

Finally, I would add a small allocation with the BetaShares Global Cybersecurity ETF.

Cybersecurity is an area I believe will only become more important over time. As businesses and governments continue to migrate to the cloud, the need to protect data and systems is growing rapidly.

This ASX ETF provides exposure to a range of global cybersecurity companies, offering a more targeted growth opportunity alongside the broader market exposures.

Foolish takeaway

If I were investing $50,000 today, I would focus on ETFs that I could hold for years.

The VAS ETF would provide a strong Australian foundation, the V500 ETF would deliver exposure to the US, the QUAL ETF would add a quality tilt, the VAE ETF would capture Asian growth, and the HACK ETF would bring a thematic edge.

The post Here are 5 ASX ETFs that I would buy with $50,000 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Australia makes up only a small portion of the global share market, and the ASX itself is quite concentrated. Banks and miners dominate the index, which means investors can miss opportunities when those sectors go through weaker cycles.

That's one reason I often look to exchange-traded funds (ETFs) to gain broader exposure.

In particular, there are a few Vanguard ETFs that I think could potentially outperform the ASX 200 over the long run.

Vanguard S&P 500 US Shares Index ETF (ASX: V500)

If I had to choose one market that has consistently delivered strong long-term returns, it would probably be the United States.

The U.S. market is home to many of the world's most innovative and profitable companies. Businesses such as Apple, Microsoft, and Nvidia have become global giants, driving much of the market's growth over the past decade.

The Vanguard S&P 500 US Shares Index ETF gives investors exposure to 500 of the largest listed companies in the United States.

What I like about this ETF is that it provides access to a broad portfolio of industry leaders across technology, healthcare, consumer goods, and financial services. It also does so at a very low cost.

Personally, I think having exposure to the U.S. economy is one of the easiest ways for Australian investors to diversify their portfolios and potentially access stronger long-term growth than the local market alone.

Vanguard FTSE Asia ex-Japan Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAE)

Another region I believe investors shouldn't ignore is Asia.

Many Asian economies continue to grow faster than developed markets, supported by rising incomes, expanding middle classes, and rapid urbanisation.

The Vanguard FTSE Asia ex-Japan Shares Index ETF provides exposure to a wide range of companies across markets such as China, Taiwan, South Korea, and India.

This ETF offers exposure to industries that are less prominent on the ASX, including semiconductor manufacturing, global electronics supply chains, and fast-growing consumer businesses.

In my view, the long-term economic growth across Asia could translate into strong corporate earnings growth over time, which may help drive returns that outpace more mature markets.

Vanguard Diversified High Growth Index ETF (ASX: VDHG)

If I wanted a single ETF that could serve as the core of a long-term portfolio, I think the Vanguard Diversified High Growth Index ETF would be very hard to ignore.

This ETF invests in a diversified portfolio of other Vanguard funds, giving investors exposure to thousands of companies around the world.

The portfolio is heavily weighted toward growth assets such as global shares, with smaller allocations to Australian shares, emerging markets, and fixed income.

What I like most about the VDHG ETF is its simplicity. With one ETF, investors can gain broad diversification across global markets without having to build a complicated portfolio themselves.

For long-term investors who want a relatively hands-off approach, that type of diversification could potentially deliver stronger returns than relying solely on the ASX 200.

Foolish takeaway

I still think the ASX 200 has a key place in a diversified portfolio.

But if I were aiming for long-term growth, I would want exposure beyond Australia's relatively small and concentrated market.

With global diversification, exposure to faster-growing regions, and access to some of the world's most innovative companies, I believe ETFs like these Vanguard funds could have a good chance of outperforming the ASX 200 over the long term.

The post Why I think these Vanguard ETFs could outperform the ASX 200 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

At the time of writing, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is down 5% and the S&P 500 Index (SP: .INX) is down nearly 2% just since the beginning of March. 

Watching your portfolio plummet can induce panic. 

However it's at times like these investors need to remain focussed on the long-term. 

Research from Betashares reinforced the importance of this discipline. 

Hans Lee, Senior Finance Writer at BetaShares said price swings and permanent losses are not the same thing. 

What often separates the two is whether an individual stayed invested long enough for the market to do its job.

During the Liberation Day sell-down, a hypothetical investor who sold right at the top and reinvested just 3 months later would have underperformed an investor who 'rode out' the crash without selling by more than 8% in less than a year.

In other words, remaining invested would have resulted in better returns.

For those investors focussed on holding through the volatility, here are three ASX ETFs that have risen steadily over the long term. 

BetaShares Australia 200 ETF (ASX: A200)

Put simply, this ASX ETF aims to track the performance of an index (before fees and expenses) comprising 200 of the largest companies by market capitalisation listed on the ASX.

The fund includes blue-chip companies like the big four banks, as well as mining and materials giants. 

It is a popular option for investors looking for simple exposure to the ASX 200. 

Furthermore, it has a strong track record, with a per annum return of 10.97% over the last 5 years. 

Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS)

A nice compliment to an Australian focussed ASX ETF is this fund from Vanguard. 

It includes around 1,300 companies from developed countries, excluding Australia.

Investing internationally offers greater access to sectors such as technology and health care that aren't as well represented in the Australian share market.

It has brought annual returns of almost 15% over the last 5 years. 

Vanguard S&P 500 US Shares Index ETF (ASX: V500)

This fund from Vanguard is actually brand new. 

It only hit the market last week. 

However, the fund provides exposure to a diversified portfolio of the 500 largest publicly listed U.S. companies across all major sectors. 

While the fund is new, the index it tracks – the S&P 500 – is one of the benchmark US indexes. 

The index is up 71.19% over the last 5 years. 

The post Look long-term with these 3 ASX ETFs appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Instead of trying to pick individual winners, a single ETF can provide exposure to dozens or even hundreds of companies across different industries and countries. For long-term investors, that diversification can be a powerful way to participate in global economic growth.

If I had $10,000 ready to invest right now, I would be looking closely at a handful of Vanguard ETFs that offer broad exposure to different parts of the world.

Here are three that stand out to me.

Vanguard S&P 500 US Shares Index ETF (ASX: V500)

One of the newest additions to the ASX ETF landscape is the Vanguard S&P 500 US Shares Index ETF, which launched this month.

This fund aims to track the performance of the S&P 500 Index, giving investors exposure to 500 of the largest publicly listed companies in the United States. That includes many of the world's most influential businesses across technology, healthcare, financials, and consumer sectors.

The S&P 500 has historically been one of the most powerful wealth-building engines in global markets, driven by the strength and innovation of the U.S. economy.

What also stands out to me about this ETF is its low management fee of just 0.07% per year, which makes it a cost-effective way to gain exposure to large-cap U.S. companies.

For investors seeking long-term growth, having exposure to the U.S. market through a fund like the V500 ETF makes a lot of sense in my view.

Vanguard FTSE Asia Ex-Japan Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAE)

Another region I think deserves a place in a diversified portfolio is Asia.

The Vanguard FTSE Asia Ex-Japan Shares Index ETF provides exposure to a broad portfolio of companies across major Asian economies including China, Taiwan, South Korea, and India.

These markets are home to many of the world's fastest-growing economies and some of the most important technology and manufacturing businesses globally.

Companies involved in semiconductors, electronics, financial services, and consumer goods are well represented in the index.

Adding exposure to Asian markets can help diversify a portfolio beyond Australia and the United States, while also providing access to long-term growth driven by rising middle classes and expanding economies.

Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets Shares ETF (ASX: VGE)

The third ETF I would consider buying is the Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets Shares ETF.

This fund provides exposure to hundreds of stocks across emerging markets such as China, India, Brazil, Taiwan, and South Africa.

Emerging markets can be more volatile than developed markets, but they also offer significant long-term growth potential as economies industrialise and consumer spending rises.

Many global investors allocate a portion of their portfolios to emerging markets for this reason.

By investing through a broad ETF like the VGE ETF, investors can gain exposure to these markets without needing to pick individual companies or countries.

Foolish takeaway

Building a globally diversified portfolio doesn't need to be complicated.

By combining ETFs that focus on the United States, Asia, and emerging markets, investors can gain exposure to a wide range of economies and industries around the world.

For long-term investors looking to participate in global growth, I think Vanguard's V500 ETF, VAE ETF, and VGE ETF could be worth considering for a $10,000 investment.

The post I would put $10,000 into these Vanguard ETFs tomorrow if I could appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.