Recent data from ETF manager Global X shows that the Australian ETF market grew by 32.7% over the year to the end of June and that it is running at a five-year compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 26.3% per annum.

Global X says on its website:

This growth was driven by $61.6 billion in net inflows over the past year, positive market movements, and unlisted funds converting into active ETFs. Investors poured $3.5 billion into Australian ETFs in June, but the end of the financial year month is seasonally a quieter one for the industry in terms of flows. The 2026 financial year was the best financial year ever for ETF net flows with the industry taking in $61.6 billion in FY26, up 48% from FY25. The industry has now attracted around $30 billion year-to-date (YTD) and remains on track to eclipse last year's record $53 billion.

The reasons for this growth are not surprising. Buying an ETF that tracks an index removes the work and potential stress involved in picking stocks, while still allowing investors to invest thematically if they wish.

For those just getting started, here are three ETFs that keep it simple.

Betashares Diversified All Growth ETF (ASX: DHHF)

DHHF casts its net wide, offering exposure to about 8000 companies worldwide, with 35.1% in Australian equities, 41.5% in the US, and the rest in developed and emerging markets.

Betashares says on its website:

DHHF will have a long-term exposure to 100% growth assets (shares). It is intended for use as a satellite through to standalone solution within a portfolio for investors seeking capital growth and income with a very high risk and return profile for that portion of their portfolio. A minimum investment timeframe of 5 years or more is suggested.

DHHF has returned a compound 10.48% over the past five years and has a distribution yield of 2.1% over the past year.

Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS)

Vanguard says VAS is Australia's largest ETF, giving investors exposure to the top 300 companies listed on the ASX.

It has a very low management fee of 0.07%, and investors can start off with as little as $200 if they invest through Vanguard itself.

Vanguard says:

The ETF provides low-cost, broadly diversified exposure to Australian companies and property trusts listed on the Australian Securities Exchange. It also offers potential long-term capital growth along with dividend income and franking credits.

Unsurprisingly, VAS' top five investments are the big four banks and BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP).

Vanguard says $10,000 invested five years ago would now be worth $14,399.

Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS)

The VGS ETF has a much wider remit than VAS, with exposure to about 1300 companies from developed countries, notably excluding Australia, so it doesn't double up with VAS.

Vanguard says on its website:

Investing internationally offers greater access to sectors such as technology and health care that aren't as well represented in the Australian share market. The ETF provides exposure to many of the world's largest companies listed in major developed countries. It offers low-cost access to a broadly diversified range of securities that allows investors to participate in the long-term growth potential of international economies outside Australia.

The ETF's largest holdings are in US tech companies, including Nvidia, Apple, and Microsoft.

Vanguard said $10,000 invested five years ago would now be worth $18,775.

The management fee for the VGS ETF is 0.18%.

The post Getting started with ASX ETFs? These 3 might be worth a look appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The harder task is choosing how much income to take today without leaving the portfolio with too little growth for the years ahead.

Here is how I would approach it if I were retiring.

Set a realistic income target

I would begin with an annual dividend yield target of around 4% to 5%.

A 4% yield on $200,000 would generate approximately $8,000 a year before tax and franking credits. At 5%, the annual income would rise to $10,000.

I would aim near the middle of that range and focus on sustainable payments.

Pushing the portfolio towards a 7% or 8% yield could lead to excessive exposure to indebted businesses, cyclical dividends, or companies with limited growth. A slightly lower starting income can be worthwhile when the underlying holdings have scope to raise their payments over time.

Build the income base

I would place around $100,000 across established ASX dividend shares.

Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) could provide fully franked dividends and exposure to a high-quality banking franchise.

Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS) would add defensive earnings from mobile and telecommunications services, while Coles Group Ltd (ASX: COL) could provide another relatively steady source of cash flow through essential grocery spending.

I would also consider Transurban Group (ASX: TCL) and APA Group (ASX: APA). Their infrastructure assets offer income tied to toll-road traffic and energy networks rather than bank profits or household retail spending.

Spreading the allocation across several earnings drivers can make the income stream less dependent on one sector.

Add some property income

I would invest another $40,000 across selected real estate investment trusts.

HomeCo Daily Needs REIT (ASX: HDN) provides exposure to properties linked to supermarkets, pharmacies, and other everyday services. Charter Hall Long WALE REIT (ASX: CLW) owns properties supported by long leases, which can give investors greater visibility over rental income.

REIT distributions can be attractive, although debt levels and interest costs deserve close attention. I would keep this allocation diversified and avoid letting property become the dominant source of retirement income.

Keep some growth in the portfolio

I would place $40,000 into the Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS).

A broad global ETF may initially produce less income than the ASX dividend shares, but it can help the portfolio grow and reduce reliance on the Australian economy.

That growth can support future withdrawals and protect spending power against inflation.

I would treat the global allocation as a source of future income rather than judge it solely by the distributions paid today. During strong market periods, an investor could also sell a small number of units to supplement dividends.

Hold a cash reserve

The final $20,000 would remain in cash or a short-term deposit.

That reserve could cover withdrawals during a market downturn and reduce the pressure to sell shares after prices have fallen.

Dividends and distributions could gradually refill the cash allocation, while excess cash could be reinvested when attractive opportunities appear.

Foolish takeaway

I would expect a portfolio structured this way to begin closer to the lower end of the 4% to 5% income range, producing roughly $8,000 to $9,000 a year before tax and franking credits.

The aim would be a retirement income stream with room to rise, supported by dividend-paying shares, property income, global growth, and a cash buffer.

That approach gives the portfolio several ways to support spending while preserving enough growth for a retirement that may last decades.

The post How I would turn $200,000 into an ASX retirement income portfolio appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

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

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

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

Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS)

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

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

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

Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS)

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

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

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

Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ)

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

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

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

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

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

Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF (ASX: HACK)

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

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

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

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

VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat ETF (ASX: MOAT)

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

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

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

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

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

You don't need to pick individual winners, nor do you need to time the market.

ASX investors can simply buy a basket of shares in a single trade.

Here are three ASX ETFs that make long-term investing genuinely easy.

Why ASX ETFs suit long-term investors

ASX ETFs give you instant diversification, as one fund unit can hold hundreds or even thousands of companies.

If one business stumbles, the others help cushion the blow.

ETFs are also, generally speaking, cheap to own. Many of the most popular funds charge a fraction of what an active manager would.

For investors, lower fees mean more of the return stays in your pocket.

And they trade on the ASX just like any share: investors can buy or sell ETFs during market hours with a few clicks.

Here are three ASX-listed ETFs that take the guesswork out of investing.

Vanguard Australian Shares ETF (VAS)

The Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS) is the largest ETF on the ASX.

It tracks the S&P/ASX 300 Index, meaning that one trade gives you exposure to the top 300 Australian companies.

Investors instantly get the big banks, the major miners, and many more of the companies that make the ASX what it is.

Vanguard charges a management fee of just 0.07% per year.

VAS also pays regular quarterly distributions, which come primarily from franked Aussie dividends.

For a low-cost core holding, VAS is tough to beat.

iShares S&P 500 ETF (IVV)

As opposed to VAS, the iShares S&P 500 ETF (ASX: IVV) opens the door to the United States for ASX investors.

The ETF tracks the 500 largest US-listed companies, including companies like Apple Inc (NASDAQ: AAPL), Microsoft Corp (NASDAQ: MSFT), and Nvidia Corp (NASDAQ: NVDA).

So why invest in the US rather than in Australia? Well, the S&P 500 has delivered an average annual return of around 10% over the very long term.

True to form, in 2025, IVV gave Australian investors a total return of 10.13%.

However, IVV also introduces new risks, including foreign exchange risk. Currency moves between US and Australian dollars can lift or lower those returns in any given year.

But as a long-term US holding, IVV is a firm favourite, and like VAS, also carries a very low management fee of 0.04%.

Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (VGS)

The Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS) casts the net even wider.

This ETF holds shares across 22 developed markets, including the US, Japan, the UK, and Europe.

In 2025, VGS delivered a total return of 13.34%, comprising 9.81% in capital growth and a 3.53% distribution yield.

The fund charges 0.18% per year.

Unlike the other two ETFs, investors in VGS benefit from international diversification, which reduces volatility and should, in theory, increase risk-adjusted returns.

For broad international diversification, VGS is a standout.

Foolish takeaway for ASX ETFs

These three ASX ETFs cover Australia, the US, and the wider world.

Together, they form a simple, low-cost foundation for a long-term portfolio.

Investors can hold all three, or start with just one, keeping in mind that VGS and IVV overlap heavily on US shares.

Past returns are also never a guarantee of future performance.

But for hands-off investors, these ASX ETFs make building wealth about as easy as it gets.

The post 3 ASX ETFs that make long-term investing easy appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

ASX ETFs have surged in popularity over the past decade, offering investors a low-cost, diversified way to invest without having to pick individual shares.

Few providers have benefited more from that trend than the Vanguard Group. Its focus on low fees, broad diversification, and a simple buy-and-hold investing philosophy has made its ETFs favourites among first-time investors and retirees alike.

Here's how two of the fund manager's biggest ASX-listed exchange-traded funds (ETFs) – the Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS) and the Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS) – are performing so far this year.

Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF

The Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF aims to track the performance of the S&P/ASX 300 Index (ASX: XKO), giving investors exposure to around 300 of Australia's largest listed companies.

The ETF is heavily weighted towards Australia's biggest sectors, with Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) and BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) each accounting for more than 10% of the portfolio. Other major holdings include Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES), Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG), Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO), and Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS).

That concentration in banks and miners can be both a strength and a weakness. Investors benefit from exposure to some of Australia's highest-quality companies and attractive dividend yields, but the portfolio is less diversified across sectors than many global funds.

VAS charges a low management fee of 0.07% per annum, helping investors keep more of their returns over the long term.

At the time of writing, the ETF has returned around 2% over the past year and is down approximately 1.6% over the past month, trading at $108.92. Over the past five years, it has delivered a total return of around 16%.

Income remains one of VAS' biggest attractions. Investors recently received a distribution of 48.99 cents per unit, reinforcing its appeal for those seeking regular passive income.

Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF

For investors wanting to diversify beyond Australia, the Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF offers exposure to more than 1,300 large and mid-cap companies across developed markets outside Australia.

Its largest holdings include technology giants Microsoft Corp (NASDAQ: MSFT) and Nvidia Corp (NASDAQ: NVDA), both of which have benefited from the rapid growth of artificial intelligence.

Unlike VAS, VGS has relatively little exposure to Australian banks and resources companies. Instead, it provides investors with access to many of the world's leading technology, healthcare, consumer, and industrial businesses. The ETF also charges a competitive management fee of 0.18% per annum.

Performance has been particularly strong. VGS has gained around 11% over the past year and has significantly outperformed VAS over the past five years, delivering a return of approximately 62%.

Investors also recently received a distribution of 80.11 cents per unit.

For Australians seeking greater global diversification and exposure to many of the world's highest-quality companies, VGS continues to be a compelling long-term core holding.

The post VAS vs VGS: Which Vanguard ETF is winning so far this year? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Here is a summary of the final distributions that investors will receive on Thursday.

The Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS) will pay a dividend of 48.83 cents per unit.

Vanguard Australian Shares High Yield ETF (ASX: VHY) will pay 40.65 cents per unit.

The Vanguard MSCI Australian Small Companies Index ETF (ASX: VSO) will pay 219.69 cents per unit.

Vanguard Australian Fixed Interest Index ETF (ASX: VAF) will pay a dividend of 53.37 cents per unit.

The Vanguard Australian Property Securities Index ETF (ASX: VAP) will pay 147.02 cents per unit.

Vanguard Ethically Conscious Australian Shares ETF (ASX: VETH) will pay 34.38 cents per unit.

Vanguard MSCI Australian Large Companies Index ETF (ASX: VLC) will pay a dividend of 26.66 cents per unit.

What about ETFs holding international shares?

Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS) will pay 81.54 cents per unit in dividends.

The currency-hedged version of VGS, Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares (Hedged) ETF (ASX: VGAD), will pay 293.51 cents per unit.

The Vanguard MSCI International Small Companies Index ETF (ASX: VISM) will pay 322.63 cents per unit.

Vanguard S&P 500 US Shares Index ETF (ASX: V500) will pay 11.45 cents per unit.

Vanguard FTSE Europe Shares ETF (ASX: VEQ) will pay 97.49 cents per unit.

The Vanguard Diversified High Growth Index ETF (ASX: VDHG) will pay 121.56 cents per unit.

Vanguard Ethically Conscious International Shares Index ETF (ASX: VESG) will pay 64.40 cents per unit.

Mega dividends

The two biggest payers on Vanguard's mid-year schedule of dividends are as follows.

Vanguard Global Minimum Volatility Active ETF (ASX: VMIN) is an actively managed ETF invested in about 200 international shares.

The ETF aims to deliver lower volatility than the FTSE Global All Cap Index (AUD Hedged), before fees.

VMIN ETF will pay a monster dividend of 377.42 cents per unit.

This is a quarterly distribution.

When Vanguard announced its estimated distributions on 26 June, VMIN closed at $64.32 per unit.

So, this mega dividend amounts to an impressive 5.9% dividend yield for the quarter.

VMIN's unit price has since dropped by the dividend amount, as usual, after going ex-dividend on 1 July.

Vanguard Global Value Equity Active ETF (ASX: VVLU) is also actively managed.

VVLU targets global value stocks drawn mainly from the FTSE Developed All Cap Index and the Russell 3000 Index.

VVLU ETF will pay the largest dollar-amount dividend on Vanguard's schedule at 619.93 cents per unit.

This is also a quarterly distribution.

On 26 June, VVLU ETF closed at $83.19 per unit.

That means today's distribution provides an even more impressive dividend yield of 7.5%.

The post Own Vanguard ASX ETFs? It's dividend payday! appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

It shows the habit is already there. The money is invested, the balance has substance, and compounding has something to work with.

The next challenge is turning that foundation into something much larger.

I think there are three practical ways to help close the gap to $500,000.

Make future income do more of the work

The first way is to stop thinking only about the money already saved.

A $100,000 starting balance is a strong foundation, but there is still work to be done, and your salary will be key.

That could mean salary sacrifice into superannuation, making extra personal contributions where appropriate, or increasing contributions each time your income rises.

I like this approach because it avoids relying entirely on market returns. The portfolio still needs to grow, but regular contributions give compounding more capital to work with.

Even modest extra contributions can build momentum over time.

For example, someone who adds money every month is doing more than increasing the balance. They are buying more assets, collecting more future dividends or distributions, and giving themselves a larger base for long-term growth.

The mistake I would try to avoid is waiting until there is a large amount left over at the end of the year. Retirement savings often grow best when contributions become automatic and boring.

That may not sound exciting, but it can be key.

Own enough growth

The second way is to make sure the money is invested with enough long-term growth potential.

A portfolio that is too conservative may feel comfortable, but it can make the journey from $100,000 to $500,000 much harder.

For investors with enough time before retirement, I think growth assets need to do a lot of the work.

That could include ASX shares, international shares, and diversified funds or ETFs inside a super fund or personal portfolio. This could include ResMed Inc. (ASX: RMD), Microsoft Corp (NASDAQ: MSFT), or the Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS).

The key is not just owning shares for the sake of it. I would want exposure to businesses that can grow earnings, reinvest, raise dividends, and benefit from long-term trends.

Broad ETFs can help here because they spread money across many companies and industries. Quality ASX shares can also play a role, especially businesses with strong market positions and the ability to compound over time.

The difference over long periods can be significant.

At 8% per year, $100,000 would grow to around $466,000 over 20 years before fees and tax, even without adding anything else.

That is close to the $500,000 target. Add regular contributions along the way, and the target becomes much more achievable.

Stop small leaks from becoming big problems

The third way is less exciting, but I think it is underrated.

Investors should watch the small leaks that quietly slow retirement savings down.

That can include high fees, duplicate accounts, unnecessary insurance inside super, poor cash holdings, weak investment options, or switching strategies too often.

None of these may look material in one year. But over 10, 20, or 30 years, they can make a meaningful difference.

I would also pay attention to behaviour. Selling during downturns, chasing last year's strongest performer, or constantly changing funds can break the compounding process. Sometimes the best decision is to choose a sensible strategy and give it enough time to work.

This is where retirement savings can become a bit like a business. Revenue comes from contributions, growth comes from investment returns, and costs come from fees, tax, and mistakes.

The aim is to widen the gap between what is being added and what is being lost.

Foolish takeaway

Getting from $100,000 to $500,000 in retirement savings comes from combining three things: steady contributions, enough growth exposure, and fewer leaks along the way.

The journey may take time, and markets will not move smoothly. But a $100,000 starting point already gives investors something meaningful to build on. With the right habits and a long-term mindset, that balance can become a much larger retirement nest egg.

The post 3 ways to get from $100,000 to $500,000 in retirement savings appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

I would use it to build a portfolio that is simple enough to hold, but still has enough variety to feel well balanced.

The four ETFs below would give me global reach, Australian exposure, US market strength, and a small tilt toward one long-term growth theme.

Here is how I would split the money in July.

Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS)

I would put the largest part of the $20,000 into this Vanguard ETF.

The reason is simple: it gives me exposure to a wide range of large companies across developed markets outside Australia.

That can be valuable for Australians because our local market is relatively small. Many of the world's biggest healthcare, technology, industrial, consumer, and financial businesses are listed overseas.

This fund gives investors a way to own a slice of that global business machine without trying to pick each company individually.

I also like it as a core holding because it can quietly do its job in the background. Some years will be strong, others will be weaker, but a broad international ETF can help investors stay connected to global earnings growth over the long term.

Betashares Australian Quality ETF (ASX: AQLT)

I would still want some local exposure. But rather than simply buying the whole Australian market, I would consider this Betashares ETF because it focuses on quality companies.

The fund's index looks for businesses with high returns on equity, lower leverage, and steadier earnings.

I like that because the Australian market can be heavily influenced by banks and resources shares. I like the idea of taking a more selective approach and focusing on companies with stronger financial characteristics.

This ETF could still fall when the ASX is weak. But over the long term, I think quality filters can help investors avoid some of the weaker parts of the market.

iShares S&P 500 ETF AUD (ASX: IVV)

This iShares ETF would give the portfolio an extra tilt toward the US share market.

While the first ETF already has some US exposure, I would still be comfortable adding this fund because Wall Street remains home to many of the world's most dominant companies.

The S&P 500 is not just a technology story. It includes businesses across healthcare, payments, consumer products, manufacturing, financial services, software, and other areas.

What I like is the depth of the market. The US has a long record of producing companies that can scale globally, reinvest heavily, and become more valuable over time.

Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF (ASX: HACK)

The final part of the $20,000 would go into a more focused ETF.

Cybersecurity is one of those areas that feels increasingly tied to how the modern economy works. Companies, governments, hospitals, banks, retailers, and households all rely on digital systems that need protection.

That creates demand for businesses involved in security software, threat detection, identity protection, cloud security, and related services.

This Betashares ETF is more targeted than the others, so I would keep the allocation smaller. Further, the share prices of cybersecurity companies can be volatile, especially if valuations become stretched.

Even so, I like the idea of having a small position in a theme that could remain important for many years.

Foolish takeaway

If I were investing $20,000 into ASX ETFs in July, I would focus most of the money on broad exposure and then add a couple of deliberate tilts.

The aim would be to own a portfolio that can grow with global markets, include some local quality, and capture a small slice of a powerful digital security trend.

I would not overcomplicate it.

A mix like this could give investors plenty of diversification while still making the portfolio feel purposeful. For me, that is exactly what a long-term ETF portfolio should do.

The post How to invest $20,000 in ASX ETFs in July appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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

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

Analysts remain bullish.

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

Reasons to remain bullish on SpaceX shares

The core of the bull case is Starlink.

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

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

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

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

Betashares Space Industry ETF

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

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

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

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

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

Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF

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

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

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

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

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

The risk worth understanding for SpaceX shares

SpaceX is not a conventionally profitable company.

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

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

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

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

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

Foolish Takeaway for SpaceX shares

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

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

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

NDQ, VGS, and IVV holders own it passively.

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

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

They give investors broad exposure, keep the investment process simple, and allow time to do more of the work.

Three Vanguard ETFs I would consider buying and holding are in this article.

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

The first Vanguard ETF I would look at gives investors exposure to one of the most powerful business markets in the world.

The V500 ETF tracks the S&P 500 index, which means investors get access to hundreds of large US companies through one ASX-listed fund.

I like this ETF because the US market has a rare mix of scale, ambition, innovation, and reinvestment. Many of the companies in the S&P 500 index have spent decades building global brands, deep customer relationships, and products used by businesses and consumers around the world.

I also like that the index can refresh itself over time. Businesses that grow in importance can become larger parts of the fund, while those that lose relevance can fade.

For investors who want a simple way to back US corporate strength over the long term, I think the V500 ETF is a strong option.

Vanguard Global Technology Index ETF (ASX: VTEK)

The second Vanguard ETF is more focused. The VTEK ETF gives investors access to global technology companies.

Technology investing can sometimes sound like chasing the latest trend, but I think the stronger long-term case is much more practical. Businesses want to automate more work, protect data, improve productivity, manage customers, process payments, analyse information, and use artificial intelligence more effectively.

Those needs are unlikely to disappear. The VTEK ETF provides exposure to the companies building the tools, platforms, chips, software, and digital infrastructure behind that shift.

This ETF can be more volatile than a broad market fund. Technology valuations can move quickly when expectations change. But for patient investors, I think that volatility can be worth accepting as part of a long-term growth allocation.

Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS)

I think this Vanguard ETF is one of the simplest long-term building blocks on the ASX.

It gives investors exposure to a large portfolio of developed-market shares outside Australia.

What I like about the VGS ETF is that it spreads money across many countries, industries, currencies, and business models. That can be useful for Australian investors who want their portfolio to reach beyond the local market.

I also think it can help investors avoid overthinking every decision. Instead of trying to pick which overseas company, country, or sector will perform best, investors can own a broad basket and let the market sort through the winners and losers over time.

Foolish takeaway

I think these three Vanguard ETFs could all earn a place in a long-term portfolio.

The combination gives investors access to US market strength, global technology growth, and broad developed-market diversification.

There will still be weak years. Even excellent ETFs can fall when markets become nervous.

But for investors who want simple buy-and-hold exposure to global wealth creation, I think these Vanguard ETFs are among the best options on the ASX.

The post The best Vanguard ETFs to buy and hold appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

And with exchange traded funds (ETFs), it can easily be spread across Australia, global markets, technology, cybersecurity, and robotics.

Here is one way to invest $50,000 in ASX ETFs this month.

Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS)

I would start with the Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF.

A $20,000 investment in this fund could form the core of the portfolio.

It gives investors exposure to a large number of companies across developed markets, such as the United States, Europe, Japan, and other major economies. This includes global healthcare companies, technology leaders, consumer brands, industrial businesses, and financial giants.

This fund could act as the foundation before adding more targeted ETFs around it.

Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS)

Next, I would consider putting $10,000 into the Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF.

This fund provides broad exposure to the local share market. That means investors can own a slice of Australia's banks, miners, healthcare shares, retailers, property groups, infrastructure businesses, and industrial companies in one trade.

It also gives the portfolio exposure to Australian dividends and franking credits.

The local market is not as deep as global markets, but it still deserves a place in a balanced ASX ETF portfolio.

Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF (ASX: HACK)

I would then put $7,500 into the Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF.

Cybersecurity has become a permanent cost of operating in the digital economy.

Companies need to protect data, networks, cloud systems, employees, customers, and payments. As more activity moves online, the risks become larger and more complex.

This ASX ETF gives investors exposure to companies trying to solve those problems through identity security, endpoint protection, cloud security, threat detection, and network defence.

It is more targeted than a broad market fund, but the long-term demand drivers are hard to ignore.

Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF (ASX: ASIA)

Another $7,500 could go into the Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF.

This fund gives investors exposure to Asian technology companies, including businesses linked to semiconductors, hardware, ecommerce, gaming, and digital platforms.

It is a different type of technology exposure from a US-focused fund. Asia plays a major role in both building the digital economy and serving large, fast-moving consumer markets.

The risks are higher because the fund is concentrated by region and sector, but the long-term growth potential remains attractive.

Betashares Global Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF (ASX: RBTZ)

The final $5,000 could go into the Betashares Global Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF.

This fund gives exposure to companies involved in robotics, automation, artificial intelligence, drones, unmanned vehicles, and intelligent machinery.

It is a higher-risk holding, so I would keep the allocation smaller.

The opportunity is tied to industries trying to improve productivity, reduce labour constraints, and use smarter machines in more settings.

It was recently recommended by analysts at Betashares.

The post Where to invest $50,000 in ASX ETFs this month appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

I think it is achievable, especially when investors stop thinking about one big lump sum and start thinking about a repeatable monthly habit.

The share market rewards consistency over time, especially when investors use diversified exchange-traded funds (ETFs), quality ASX shares, and the power of compounding.

Here is how I think an investor could start from zero and work toward that first $50,000 milestone.

Start with simple building blocks

I think one of the easiest ways to begin is with diversified ASX-listed ETFs.

An ETF such as the Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS) can give investors exposure to a broad basket of local companies. Another option, the Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS), can provide access to global shares through one investment.

That kind of simplicity can be useful when starting from zero.

Investors do not need to know every company perfectly on day one. They can start by owning a broad slice of the market, then learn more as the portfolio grows.

For someone who wants exposure to the US market, the iShares S&P 500 ETF (ASX: IVV) could also be worth considering. It gives investors access to many of the largest companies in the United States.

Add quality ASX shares over time

ETFs can make a strong foundation, but some investors may also want to add individual ASX shares as they gain confidence.

That could mean looking for high-quality businesses with strong brands, lasting demand, and the ability to keep growing over time.

For example, Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) has one of the strongest banking franchises in the country, Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES) has a long history of managing different businesses and allocating capital carefully, and CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL) gives investors exposure to global healthcare demand.

Those are not automatic buys at any price. Valuation is always important.

But I think they show the type of businesses investors could consider as their knowledge improves: companies with real earnings, strong market positions, and long-term relevance.

How to get to $50,000

If an investor started with nothing and invested $500 a month into ASX shares, the portfolio could build faster than many people expect.

Assuming an average return of 9% per annum, it would take around six and a half years to reach $50,000.

I think that is a realistic example of how regular investing, time, and compounding can work together.

Keep going when markets move around

It is always best to remember that a 9% annual return is only an assumption. The share market will not deliver that return neatly each year. Some years will be strong. Others will be flat, frustrating, or negative.

That is why I think the monthly habit is so important.

Investing $500 a month removes some of the pressure of trying to pick the perfect moment. If prices fall, investors buy at lower levels. If markets rise, the portfolio keeps participating.

The real advantage comes from staying consistent.

Foolish takeaway

Going from zero to $50,000 with ASX shares requires a plan that can be repeated through different market conditions.

With $500 a month, a sensible mix of ETFs and quality ASX shares, and enough time for compounding to work, I think investors can turn a blank starting point into a meaningful portfolio.

The post How to go from zero to $50,000 with ASX shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

That's why I prefer a mix of high-quality companies and diversified exchange-traded funds (ETFs). Together, they can provide exposure to different sectors, geographies and income sources, reducing the reliance on any single investment.

If I were building a portfolio for retirement income today, these five ASX investments would be at the top of my list.

BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP)

When it comes to retirement income, BHP offers something few companies can match: ownership of some of the world's lowest-cost mining assets.

The mining giant generates enormous cash flows from iron ore, copper and metallurgical coal, allowing it to return significant amounts of capital to shareholders through dividends over the long term.

While earnings and dividends will naturally fluctuate with commodity prices, BHP's strong balance sheet, operational scale and diversified resource base make it one of the most dependable dividend payers on the ASX.

The growing importance of copper in electrification and renewable energy also provides an attractive long-term growth opportunity alongside its income appeal.

Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA)

No retirement income portfolio feels complete without exposure to Australia's biggest bank.

Commonwealth Bank has built an enviable record of generating consistent profits through economic cycles, supported by its dominant position in home lending, deposits and business banking.

Although the shares rarely look cheap, investors aren't simply paying for today's earnings. They're buying a business with outstanding profitability, a powerful brand and a history of delivering fully franked dividends.

For retirees seeking dependable income, CBA continues to earn its place.

Transurban Group Ltd (ASX: TCL)

Infrastructure can add another layer of stability to retirement income, and that's exactly where Transurban shines.

The company owns and operates many of Australia's busiest toll roads, generating recurring cash flows from assets that are extremely difficult to replicate. As cities continue growing and traffic volumes increase over time, Transurban benefits from both rising usage and inflation-linked toll increases across many of its concessions.

That combination has supported a long history of attractive distributions.

Vanguard Australian Shares High Yield ETF (ASX: VHY)

No single company should determine the success of a retirement income portfolio. That's why I'd include the Vanguard Australian Shares High Yield ETF.

VHY provides exposure to dozens of Australia's highest-yielding dividend-paying companies across sectors including banking, resources, healthcare, telecommunications and consumer staples. Instead of relying on one dividend stream, investors receive income from a broad collection of established Australian businesses.

That diversification helps smooth income over time while reducing stock-specific risk.

Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS)

While VGS isn't known for delivering a high dividend yield, I still believe it plays an important role in generating retirement income.

The ETF invests in hundreds of leading companies across developed markets, including many of the world's largest technology, healthcare and consumer businesses. Those companies may pay lower dividends today, but they also offer significant earnings and capital growth potential.

Over a long retirement, that growth can help offset inflation, increase portfolio value and support rising future income through capital appreciation or selective withdrawals.

The post I'd buy these 5 ASX dividend investments for retirement income appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The attractiveness of some investments may have changed in the last few months following the Federal budget. Property investors who buy an established residential property can no longer benefit from negative gearing (the losses are carried forward until the property makes a profit), though buyers of new builds can still make use of negative gearing.

The outlook for sizeable capital gains for residential property looks challenging in the short to medium term.

In my view, there are three areas that still make a lot of sense for investors.

Commercial property

Residential properties may have been impacted, but commercial property looks as attractive as ever to me. Commercial properties are normally positively geared, which is great for investor cash flow.

However, I'm not looking to become a property manager. Instead, I believe that high-quality real estate investment trusts (REITs) are a great option to invest my money because I can buy a stake in a portfolio of properties in a single transaction.

Names like Centuria Industrial REIT (ASX: CIP), Dexus Industria REIT (ASX: DXI), Charter Hall Long WALE REIT (ASX: CLW) and Rural Funds Group (ASX: RFF) offer exposure to quality property portfolios and good distribution yields. As a bonus, they are all trading at large discounts to their last reported net tangible assets (NTA).

High-quality exchange-traded funds

Another area that I think is well worth investing in is exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and listed investment companies (LICs) because of the diversification and returns they can provide over the long-term.

I'd rather invest in international shares than local shares because I'm not sure that ASX blue-chip shares are going to grow earnings materially in the near-term. Major ASX bank shares face headwinds from the property taxation changes, as well as a challenge from Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG), while African iron ore from new projects could be a headwind for earnings from BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) and Fortescue Ltd (ASX: FMG).

In my view, something like the Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS) makes a lot of sense because it provides exposure to well over 1,000 shares from the global share market.

But, given the uncertainty of how various intriguing investment trends will play out – AI, data centres, private credit, the lack of fuel and other resources flowing out of the Middle East, and inflation – I think high-quality businesses are best-suited to these conditions.

Over the long-term, I believe ideas such as VanEck MSCI International Quality ETF (ASX: QUAL) and Betashares Global Quality Leaders ETF (ASX: QLTY) can outperform the wider global share market, so that could be a great place to invest my money.

ASX shares that can grow earnings

The final place that could be a good area to invest is good ASX shares with solid earnings growth potential.

There are plenty of businesses that could deliver pleasing returns over the long-term as they grow their earnings. The ASX is more than just the largest businesses.

I'm thinking of names like Temple & Webster Group Ltd (ASX: TPW), Breville Group Ltd (ASX: BRG), Sigma Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SIG), TechnologyOne Ltd (ASX: TNE), Siteminder Ltd (ASX: SDR), L1 Group Ltd (ASX: L1G), Lovisa Holdings Ltd (ASX: LOV), Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES) and Washington H. Soul Pattinson and Co. Ltd (ASX: SOL).

These aren't the only names I'd buy to invest my money for my portfolio, there are plenty of exciting options!

The post How should I invest my money in FY27? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Space Exploration Technologies Corp (NASDAQ: SPCX) is expected to be included in the Nasdaq-100 index this week, less than a month after its 12 June listing.

The inclusion is driven by the Nasdaq-100's fast-track rules for extraordinarily large listings. This allows a company to be added to the index far more quickly than the standard schedule if its market cap is large enough to justify it.

SpaceX, now trading at US$160 per share at a valuation exceeding US$2 trillion, clearly meets that threshold.

For Australian investors, the implications are more direct than many realise.

What Nasdaq-100 inclusion actually means

The Nasdaq-100 is not just a list of large technology companies. Instead, it is the benchmark that underpins hundreds of billions of dollars in index-tracking funds and ETFs around the world.

When SpaceX joins that index, every fund that tracks the Nasdaq-100 must buy SpaceX shares, mechanically and at scale, regardless of what any portfolio manager thinks of the company's valuation.

Estimates suggest between US$22 billion and US$27 billion in mechanical index buying will be required across QQQ and Russell 1000 trackers once the inclusion becomes effective.

What inclusion means for NDQ holders

The most direct impact for Australian retail investors is felt through the Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ). NDQ is one of the most widely held ETFs in Australia.

Anyone who owns NDQ, or other ASX-listed US-focused ETFs including the Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS) and the iShares S&P 500 ETF (ASX: IVV), will own SpaceX shares once the inclusion is effective.

That happens automatically, without the investor needing to do anything.

For investors who want Nasdaq-100 exposure and are comfortable with SpaceX as a holding, NDQ remains the simplest and most liquid way to access that index from the ASX.

For investors who are concerned about SpaceX's valuation or its GAAP losses, it is worth noting that the inclusion means they will own SpaceX whether they want to or not.

What inclusion means for RCKT holders

For the Betashares Space Industry ETF (ASX: RCKT), index inclusion has come even faster.

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

SpaceX now represents 25.9% of the RCKT portfolio, making it the fund's single largest holding by a wide margin.

That means RCKT holders already own a meaningful and direct slice of SpaceX, alongside the fund's 28 other holdings across the global space economy. Rocket Lab and AST SpaceMobile remain as the next two largest positions.

For investors who want concentrated and thematic exposure to the space economy, RCKT now offers something NDQ cannot: a dedicated space fund with SpaceX as its dominant holding.

The trade-off remains that RCKT is a smaller, less liquid fund with a higher management fee of 0.57% per annum compared to NDQ's 0.22%.

What inclusion means for superannuation investors

Beyond direct ETF holdings, the Nasdaq-100 inclusion has implications for the millions of Australians whose superannuation funds allocate to international shares.

The vast majority of Australian super funds allocate a large portion of their international shares exposure to US equities. Those allocations typically include the largest companies in the US market.

Once SpaceX is in the Nasdaq-100, it becomes a holding in most institutional portfolios that benchmark against that index.

For most superannuation members, that exposure will be small relative to the overall portfolio. But it will exist, automatically, without any action required.

The risk worth understanding

SpaceX is not a conventionally profitable company.

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

A company trading at US$2 trillion with significant GAAP losses is a demanding proposition even for investors who are excited about the long-term Starlink and space economy opportunity.

Nasdaq-100 inclusion forces index-tracking funds to own it regardless.

Foolish takeaway

SpaceX joins the Nasdaq-100 this week. Millions of Australian investors will automatically own a piece of the world's most valuable space company through their ETFs and super funds.

For both RCKT and NDQ holders, exposure arrives without any further action required.

Whether SpaceX at US$2 trillion is a good investment is a separate question.

The post SpaceX will be included in the Nasdaq index this week. Here's what that means for ASX investors appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Few providers have benefited more from that trend than Vanguard. Its low fees, broad diversification and simple buy-and-hold approach have made its ETFs favourites among everyone from first-time investors to retirees.

With FY26 now behind us, here's a look at how three of Vanguard's most widely held ASX-listed ETFs performed.

Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS)

The top Vanguard ASX ETF aims to track the performance of the S&P/ASX 300 Index (ASX: XKO). This gives investors exposure to around 300 of Australia's largest listed companies.

Its biggest holdings include Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) and BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP), reflecting the dominant role financials and mining continue to play in the Australian sharemarket.

At the time of writing, VAS has returned approximately 3% over the past 12 months. Income remains one of its biggest attractions. Investors are set to receive a dividend payout of 48.99 cents per unit, to be paid on 16 July.

For investors seeking diversified exposure to Australian blue chips and a healthy stream of dividend income, VAS remains a popular core holding.

Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS)

The Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF provides exposure to more than 1,300 large and mid-sized companies across developed markets outside Australia.

Among its largest holdings are Microsoft Corp (NASDAQ: MSFT) and NVIDIA Corp (NASDAQ: NVDA), two companies that have continued to benefit from strong demand for artificial intelligence technologies.

VGS has been the standout performer of the three flagship Vanguard ETFs, delivering a gain of around 14% over the past year. Investors will also receive an 80.11 cents per unit distribution on 16 July.

The ASX ETF remains a popular choice for Australians looking to diversify beyond the domestic market and gain exposure to many of the world's highest-quality businesses.

Vanguard Australian Shares High Yield ETF (ASX: VHY)

Income investors continue to favour the Vanguard Australian Shares High Yield ETF. Rather than tracking the broader market, VHY focuses on Australian companies expected to deliver above-average dividend yields.

Its largest holdings include Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO) and Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC), highlighting the important role banks play in generating dividend income.

The ASX ETF has gained approximately 11% over the past 12 months. Investors are also set to receive a distribution of 40.82 cents per unit, payable on 16 July.

Foolish takeaway

All three ASX ETFs delivered positive returns in FY26, but each appealed to a different type of investor.

VAS continued to offer broad exposure to Australia's largest companies and dependable income. VGS rewarded investors seeking global growth, producing the strongest capital return of the group. Meanwhile, VHY remained an attractive option for those prioritising dividend income without having to select individual high-yield shares.

Together, they demonstrate why Vanguard ETFs continue to play a central role in many long-term investment portfolios.

The post How Vanguard's biggest ASX ETFs performed in FY26 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

US stocks are particularly popular given that the S&P 500 Index (SP: INX) has outperformed the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) for several years. 

Currency-hedging can reduce or amplify the returns for investors, and we are seeing this play out right now. 

It's dividend season, and a closer look shows distributions from some hedged ETFs are more than triple their unhedged counterparts. Woah.  

This largely has to do with changes to the US currency.

Since early CY25, the US dollar has been weakening against a strengthening Aussie currency. 

The Aussie dollar rose from about 62 US cents in January 2025 to a four-year high of 74 US cents in May this year. 

This has helped turbocharge distributions for some currency-hedged ETFs this season. 

The US dollar has been weakening amid expectations of interest rate cuts, concerns about the economic impact of fiscal policy, and broader geopolitical and trade uncertainty.

Meanwhile, the AUD is stronger as the outlook for interest rates improves, and rising commodity prices support our terms of trade.

Strong demand for our metals and minerals, driven by the green energy transition and the build-out of artificial intelligence (AI), also supports our currency, as foreign buyers typically pay for exports in Australian dollars.

Let's take a look at some examples of the hedging impact on ASX ETF distributions this season. 

ASX ETF distributions: Hedged vs. non-hedged 

The unhedged VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat ETF (ASX: MOAT) will pay $11.61 per unit this season. (By the way, MOAT is one of six ETFs paying a 10% dividend yield in a single payment this season.) 

Its currency-hedged counterpart, VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat (AUD Hedged) ETF (ASX: MHOT), will pay $20.54 per unit. That's a 75% higher distribution than MOAT. 

The iShares S&P 500 ETF (ASX: IVV), the market's largest ETF tracking the S&P 500 Index (SP: .INX), is paying a distribution of 23.3 cents per unit this season. 

The currency-hedged version of IVV, iShares S&P 500 (AUD Hedged) ETF (ASX: IHVV), will pay more than 10x that amount — 270.27 cents per unit.

The Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ) will pay 90 cents per unit this season. 

The hedged version of this ETF, Betashares Nasdaq 100 Currency Hedged ETF (ASX: HNDQ), will pay 30% more at 120 cents per unit. 

iShares Global 100 ETF (ASX: IOO), which tracks the S&P Global 100 (Net) Index and is made up of 79% US stocks, is paying out 182 cents per unit this season.

The iShares Global 100 (Currency-hedged) ETF (ASX: IHOO) will pay investors 1,082 cents per unit, or almost 6x the IOO ETF. 

Global X S&P World ex Australia GARP ETF (ASX: GARP) will pay 70.76 cents per unit this season. 

Global X S&P World ex Australia GARP (Currency Hedged) ETF (ASX: GHRP) will pay almost 4x that amount at 269.5 cents per unit. 

Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS), which invests in 1,500 stocks in developed nations outside Australia, and has a 77% US exposure, will pay 81.54 cents per unit. 

Its currency-hedged counterpart, Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares (Hedged) ETF (ASX: VGAD), will pay more than triple that amount at 293.5 cents per unit. 

Final distributions confirmed

ETF providers have confirmed their final distribution amounts for this season. 

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

Interested in VanEck ETFs? View final distributions here.

If you own Betashares ETFs, see final distributions here.

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

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

The post The currency-hedged ASX ETFs magnifying dividends by up to 10x this season appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

I think the best exchange-traded funds (ETFs) can sit in the second category. They do not need investors to trade in and out constantly. They can simply provide broad exposure, keep costs low, and give investors a sensible way to build wealth over many years. 

Two Vanguard ETFs I think are well-suited to that approach are discussed in this article.

Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS)

The VGS ETF is one of the ASX ETFs I would be happy to buy and hold for decades.

The appeal is simple. It gives investors exposure to a large basket of international shares across developed markets.

For Australian investors, I think that can be very useful. The ASX has many good businesses, but it does not provide the same depth in global software, healthcare, semiconductors, payments, consumer brands, industrials, and technology platforms. 

VGS helps fill that gap. Instead of trying to pick single winners overseas, investors can own a broad slice of developed markets through a single ASX-listed ETF. That means exposure to many businesses that earn revenue across different countries, currencies, industries, and economic cycles.

I also like the way a broad ETF can change over time. The world's strongest companies today may not be the same leaders in 10 or 20 years. With an index fund, investors do not need to predict every shift. As markets evolve, the portfolio can evolve with them. I think that is a strong buy-and-hold feature.

There will still be volatility. Global share markets can fall, currency movements can affect returns, and valuations can become stretched. But for investors with a long time horizon, I think VGS offers the kind of simple global exposure that can do a lot of quiet work in a portfolio.

Vanguard Diversified High Growth Index ETF (ASX: VDHG)

The VDHG ETF is another Vanguard ETF I think can suit long-term investors.

This fund is different because it is more of an all-in-one investment. It gives investors exposure to a diversified mix of assets, with a strong tilt toward growth assets such as Australian and international shares.

I think that can be helpful for investors who want simplicity.

Instead of choosing several ETFs, deciding how much to allocate to each, and rebalancing over time, the Vanguard Diversified High Growth Index ETF combines a diversified strategy into a single investment.

That does not make it perfect for everyone. Some investors may prefer more control over their Australian, international, and defensive asset exposure. Others may want a pure global shares ETF instead.

But for investors who want a straightforward buy-and-hold option, the VDHG ETF has a lot of appeal.

It can help reduce the temptation to overthink every market move. Investors can add money regularly, reinvest distributions, and let the underlying portfolio do its job over time.

I think that behavioural simplicity is underrated. A good investment plan is only useful if an investor can stick with it. This Vanguard ETF makes that easier by providing broad diversification in a single trade.

Foolish Takeaway

I think the VGS and VDHG ETFs are two of the strongest Vanguard ETFs for buy-and-hold investors.

I would buy them for long-term compounding, broad diversification, and the ability to keep investing without making the process harder than it needs to be. 

The post Why I think these Vanguard ETFs are perfect buy and hold investments appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

You are not just buying shares for a quick trade. You are building a portfolio that may need to support retirement goals many years from now.

So, what type of shares should SMSF investors consider?

Quality shares

A good starting point is quality. Superannuation investors may want to focus on companies with strong balance sheets, reliable earnings, capable management teams, and businesses that can remain relevant over many years.

These do not always have to be the fastest-growing companies on the ASX. In many cases, the better fit will be businesses with durable market positions and the ability to keep generating cash through different economic conditions.

That could include companies with strong brands, essential services, large customer bases, pricing power, or hard-to-replicate assets. Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES) and Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG) could be good examples.

The goal is to avoid building a superannuation portfolio around fragile businesses that rely on perfect conditions to survive.

Dividend shares

Dividend shares can also play an important role in an SMSF. Reliable income can become especially useful as members move closer to retirement or start drawing pension payments from the fund.

But investors should be careful not to chase yield alone. A very high dividend yield can sometimes be a warning sign that the market expects a cut.

A stronger approach is to look for companies that can support their dividends with earnings and cash flow. This might mean shares like Telstra Group Ltd (ASX: TLS) and Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW).

Franked dividends can also be valuable because franking credits may improve after-tax returns depending on the fund's circumstances.

Banks, infrastructure shares, property trusts, retailers, and some industrial companies can all provide income, but diversification remains important.

Growth shares

An SMSF should not necessarily ignore growth. Many funds will be investing across decades, which means there can be room for companies that reinvest heavily, expand into large markets, and grow earnings over time.

ASX growth shares can help a portfolio build wealth before the focus shifts more heavily toward income in retirement.

These companies may pay small dividends or no dividends at all, but the payoff can come through rising share prices if the business keeps executing.

Healthcare, technology, financial platforms, and global industrial businesses can all offer long-term growth opportunities.

The key is to avoid confusing a good story with a good investment. Strong growth shares still need real revenue, competitive advantages, financial discipline, and a sensible path to profitability. ResMed Inc. (ASX: RMD) and Xero Ltd (ASX: XRO) might be worth considering.

Diversified shares and ETFs

Diversification is another important consideration. An SMSF concentrated in only a handful of companies can be exposed to unnecessary risk, even if those companies are household names.

Investors may want to combine individual ASX shares with exchange-traded funds (ETFs) to spread money across different markets, sectors, and countries.

Global ETFs can provide exposure to the United States, Europe, Asia, healthcare, technology, consumer brands, and many other areas that are harder to access through local shares alone. The Vanguard Msci Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS) could be a good start.

Shares that match the fund's strategy

The best shares for a self-managed superannuation fund will depend on the fund's investment strategy.

But a strong SMSF ASX share portfolio will usually include a mix of quality businesses, sustainable dividend payers, long-term growth opportunities, and diversified exposure that matches the needs of the investor.

The post What type of shares should I buy for a self-managed superannuation fund? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

I do too. But I also think there is a lot to be said for owning an exchange-traded fund (ETF) that can quietly keep working in the background for years.

That is why I would consider buying Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS).

It is not the most exciting ETF on the ASX. It does not try to pick the next hot sector, chase the latest theme, or concentrate money in a handful of fast-moving stocks.

But that is why I think it can be so useful.

A simple way to invest globally

The first thing I like about the VGS ETF is the access it provides.

The ETF gives investors exposure to a large portfolio of international shares across developed markets. That means an investor can gain exposure to many of the world's largest companies without needing to pick individual winners overseas.

For Australian investors, I think that is valuable.

The ASX has plenty of good companies, but it does not offer the same depth in areas such as global technology, healthcare, consumer brands, industrials, payments, and software.

A global ETF can help fill that gap.

Rather than relying only on Australian banks, miners, retailers, and infrastructure names, investors can own a broader mix of businesses that earn money across many countries and industries.

That can make a portfolio feel more balanced over the long term.

Why simplicity can be powerful

One of the underrated strengths of ETFs is that they reduce the number of decisions an investor has to make.

Investing can become harder than it needs to be when every dollar has to be allocated to one specific company. Investors need to think about valuation, earnings, management, competition, risk, and whether something better is available.

With a broad ETF, the decision is simpler. Investors are buying a slice of a large market and letting time do more of the work.

That does not mean returns are guaranteed. Share markets can fall, currencies can move, and global investors can go through long periods of poor sentiment.

But I think the Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF suits investors who want to keep adding money over time without constantly needing to make big calls.

It can be a useful default option for spare cash, regular investing plans, or long-term wealth building.

A long-term compounding machine

The reason I like VGS ETF is not because it will shoot the lights out every year.

It is because it offers exposure to thousands of businesses competing, adapting, reinvesting, and trying to become more profitable over time.

Some companies in the ETF will disappoint. Others may become much larger. The beauty of a broad ETF is that investors do not need to know in advance which names will do all the best work.

The fund can evolve as markets evolve.

That is important because the global economy changes. New leaders emerge, old leaders fade, and industries shift. A broad international ETF can move with those changes in a way that a static list of hand-picked shares may not.

Foolish Takeaway

If I wanted to keep investing simple, the Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF would be one of the first ASX ETFs I would consider buying.

It offers global diversification, access to industries that are harder to find on the ASX, and a straightforward way to keep putting money to work over the long term.

It will still have weak years, and investors need patience. But for those trying to build wealth without overcomplicating the process, I think it could be a smart ETF to buy and hold for decades.

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