That usually leads me back to exchange-traded funds (ETFs).

Not because they are exciting, but because they allow you to capture long-term trends, diversify broadly, and stay invested without overthinking every decision.

Right now, there are three Vanguard ETFs that stand out to me ahead of the new month.

Vanguard Diversified High Growth Index ETF (ASX: VDHG)

If I wanted a single ETF to do most of the heavy lifting, this would be high on my list.

The VDHG ETF is essentially a portfolio in itself. It spreads your investment across Australian shares, global shares, emerging markets, and even a small allocation to fixed income.

What I like about it is how it removes decision-making. You do not need to worry about rebalancing between regions or trying to time different markets. The structure handles that for you.

It also leans heavily toward growth assets, which I think makes sense for long-term investors who can ride out volatility.

For someone looking to build wealth steadily without constantly adjusting their portfolio, I think this ETF does a lot of things right.

Vanguard MSCI International Small Companies Index ETF (ASX: VISM)

Large companies tend to dominate headlines, but smaller companies are often where some of the most interesting growth happens.

That is what draws me to the Vanguard MSCI International Small Companies Index ETF.

This ETF gives exposure to international small-cap companies across developed markets. These are businesses that are earlier in their growth journey, often more nimble, and sometimes overlooked by broader indices.

I see this as a way to add depth to a portfolio. While large caps provide stability and scale, small caps can offer a different growth dynamic. Over long periods, that combination can be powerful.

It will not always outperform. In fact, small caps can be more volatile. But for a long-term investor, I think that is part of the opportunity.

Vanguard Global Technology Index ETF (ASX: VTEK)

Technology has been one of the defining forces in markets over the past decade, and I do not think that trend is fading.

The Vanguard Global Technology Index ETF is a new addition to the ETF universe, and what I like about it is its focused exposure.

Instead of owning the entire market, it concentrates on around 300 technology stocks across both developed and emerging markets. That includes many of the global leaders driving innovation today.

What I like in particular is the global approach. It is not just US tech. It includes companies from multiple regions, which I think gives a broader view of how technology is evolving worldwide.

This is a higher-growth, higher-volatility type of ETF. But over a long time horizon, I think having targeted exposure to the technology sector makes a lot of sense.

Foolish takeaway

If I were looking at Vanguard ETFs to buy in April and hold for the long term, I would want a mix of simplicity, diversification, and growth.

The VDHG ETF offers an all-in-one solution that can form the core of a portfolio. The VISM ETF adds exposure to smaller companies that can drive future growth. The VTEK ETF brings a focused tilt toward global technology, one of the most important themes in modern markets.

Together, I think they could form a portfolio that is both simple and forward-looking, which is what I want when investing for the long term.

The post Why I think these Vanguard ETFs could be top buys for next month (and forever) appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Investors who own Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS) or other ETFs will receive their dividends on 20 April.

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

In order to be entitled to a dividend, new investors must buy the ETF before the ex-dividend date.

How much will ASX VAS investors get?

ASX VAS is the most popular ETF on the market with $24.21 billion in funds under management.

VAS ETF tracks the performance of the top 300 listed companies in Australia via the S&P/ASX 300 Index (ASX: XKO).

Vanguard will pay 84.788 cents per unit to ASX VAS investors on 20 April.

Here is a summary of the dividends that other Vanguard ETFs will pay to investors next month.

Vanguard Australian Shares High Yield ETF (ASX: VHY), which tracks the FTSE Australia High Dividend Yield Index, will pay 81.1836 cents per unit.

Vanguard Diversified High Growth Index ETF (ASX: VDHG) will pay 64.7933 cents per unit. This ASX ETF provides exposure to 16,000 ASX and international shares.

The Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS), which provides exposure to 1,500 stocks in developed nations outside Australia, will pay 39.576 cents per unit.

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 Vanguard Australian Property Securities Index ETF (ASX: VAP) will pay 50.5505 cents per unit. This ASX ETF allows investors exposure to bricks and mortar via the S&P/ASX 300 A-REIT Index.

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 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 177.1192 cents per unit.

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.

Want to reinvest your dividends?

A distribution reinvestment plan (DRP) is available for ASX VAS and the other Vanguard ETFs listed above.

DRP elections must be made by 5pm on Thursday.

The post Own ASX VAS or other Vanguard ETFs? Dividends just announced appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Wickenden points out that 2025 was the first year since 2020 that ASX small-cap shares outperformed the rest of the market.

The S&P/ASX Small Ords Index (ASX: XSO), which tracks companies ranked 101 to 300 by market cap, delivered a total return (capital growth plus dividends) of 24.96% last year.

By comparison, the S&P/ASX All Ords Index (ASX: XAO) delivered total returns of 10.56%.

Small-cap shares typically have market caps between a few hundred million dollars and $2 billion.

Wickenden said:

Following years of large cap earnings stability and pricing power during the higher-than-normal interest rate environment, 2025 gave way to a rate cutting cycle supporting mid and small caps. 

Lower interest rates reduce smaller companies' debt servicing costs and boost their earnings potential.

Wickenden said:

Mid and small caps in Australia also reported much stronger earnings growth throughout 2025, further driving the performance turnaround. 

Lower funding costs and easing input pressures helped to lift margins and free cash flow across these segments. 

Wickenden points to the Betashares Australian Small Companies Select ETF (ASX: SMLL) as an example of the trend.

SMLL ETF delivered a total return of 36.39% last year. It was the second-best-performing ASX ETF holding Aussie shares in 2025.

Here are three ASX exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that provide exposure to small-cap shares both on the ASX and overseas exchanges.

Betashares Australian Small Companies Select ETF (ASX: SMLL)

This ASX-focused ETF seeks to track the returns of the Nasdaq Australia Small Cap Select Index before costs.

Betashares explains the ETF's strategy:

SMLL invests in a portfolio of ASX-listed companies that are generally within the 91-350 largest by free float market capitalisation. The portfolio will typically consist of 50-100 securities.

SMLL's index uses screens that aim to identify companies with positive earnings and a strong ability to service debt.

Relative valuation metrics, price momentum and liquidity are also evaluated as part of the selection process.

ASX gold stocks dominate the ETF's list of top holdings.

There's Perseus Mining Ltd (ASX: PRU) shares at 6.1%, Westgold Resources Ltd (ASX: WGX) 4.8%, Genesis Minerals Ltd (ASX: GMD) 4.6%, Vault Minerals Ltd (ASX: VAU) 4.4%, Capricorn Metals Ltd (ASX: CMM) 4%, and Ramelius Resources Ltd (ASX: RMS) 3.9%.

Over the past five years, SMLL ETF has delivered an average annual total return of 9.73% after fees.

Vanguard MSCI International Small Companies Index ETF (ASX: VISM)

VISM ETF seeks to track the MSCI World ex-Australia Small Cap Index (with net dividends reinvested) in Australian dollars before fees.

This ASX ETF gives investors access to more than 4,000 smaller companies operating in more than 20 developed countries.

The top holdings are flash memory designer and manufacturer Sandisk Corp (NASDAQ: SNDK) 0.82%, US laser and photonics technologies developer, Coherent Corp (NYSE: COHR) 0.39%, and aircraft engine leasing operator, FTAI Aviation Ltd (NASDAQ: FTAI) 0.29%.

VISM ETF has delivered an average annual total return of 9.9% after fees over the past five years.

VanEck MSCI International Small Companies Quality ETF (ASX: QSML)

QSML ETF seeks to mirror the performance of the MSCI World ex Australia Small Cap Quality 150 Index before costs.

This provides exposure to a diversified portfolio of 150 high-quality, small-cap companies in developed countries outside Australia.

Stocks are selected on three key fundamentals: return on equity (ROE); earnings stability; and low financial leverage.

The top holdings are US aerospace industrial company, Curtiss-Wright Corp (NYSE: CW) 1.9%, precious metals royalties company, Royal Gold Inc (NASDAQ: RGLD) 1.8%, and US convenience store operator, Casey's General Stores Inc (NASDAQ: CASY) 1.65%.

QSML ETF began trading in March 2021.

Over the past three years, the ASX ETF has produced an average annual total return of 14.87% after fees.

The post 3 ASX ETFs capitalising on 'the great rotation' into small caps appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

That is why I often think exchange-traded funds (ETFs) make a lot of sense for beginners. They remove a lot of the guesswork and let you focus on time in the market rather than trying to outsmart it.

If I was helping someone take their first steps into investing, these are three Vanguard ETFs I think many beginners would genuinely like owning.

Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS)

One of the biggest mistakes new investors make is keeping their portfolio too Australia-focused. Our market is dominated by banks and miners, which are notoriously cyclical.

That is where the VGS ETF really shines. It provides exposure to over 1,000 large and mid-sized stocks across developed markets, but excluding Australia. This includes heavyweights from the US, Europe, and Japan, and gives investors access to sectors like technology and healthcare that are underrepresented locally.

For beginners, I like the Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF because it is simple, diversified, and designed to be held for the long term. You are not betting on a single theme or trend. You are backing global economic growth across a wide range of industries and countries.

Vanguard MSCI International Small Companies Index ETF (ASX: VISM)

The Vanguard MSCI International Small Companies Index ETF complements the VGS ETF nicely by focusing on international small-cap stocks. These businesses tend to be earlier in their growth journeys and can offer higher long-term growth potential, albeit with more volatility along the way.

What makes the VISM ETF appealing for beginners is that it provides access to thousands of smaller companies across developed markets in a single investment. Trying to replicate this exposure through individual stocks would be extremely difficult and risky.

While small caps can move around more in the short term, holding them within a diversified ETF structure can help smooth some of that volatility. For investors with a long time horizon, this kind of exposure can be a powerful addition to a portfolio.

Vanguard Diversified High Growth Index ETF (ASX: VDHG)

For beginners who want maximum simplicity, the Vanguard Diversified High Growth Index ETF is particularly interesting. It is effectively a portfolio in a single ETF.

The VDHG ETF invests across multiple Vanguard ETFs and asset classes, targeting around 90% growth assets and 10% income assets. This includes Australian shares, international shares, international small companies, emerging markets, and a modest allocation to fixed interest.

The benefit here is that diversification and asset allocation are handled automatically. There is no need to rebalance, adjust weightings, or worry about mixing different ETFs together. You simply invest and stay invested.

Because it is growth-focused, this ETF is best suited to beginners with a long time horizon and a higher tolerance for ups and downs.

Why these work so well for beginners

All three of these Vanguard ETFs share a few important traits. They are low cost, broadly diversified, transparent, and designed to be held for many years. They also reduce the risk of making big mistakes early on, like overtrading or chasing short-term performance.

For beginners, that combination can be incredibly valuable. Investing does not need to be complicated to be effective. In many cases, starting with high-quality ETFs like these and sticking with them can be one of the smartest moves an investor ever makes.

The post Why I think beginners would love these Vanguard ETFs appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

But when I look beyond Australia, I see parts of the global market that I think have a genuine chance to do much better than that.

One exchange traded fund (ETF) from Vanguard in particular stands out to me as having the right mix of growth potential, diversification, and valuation support to meaningfully outperform the ASX 200 this year.

That ETF is the Vanguard MSCI International Small Companies Index ETF (ASX: VISM).

Why I think international small caps could shine in 2026

VISM ETF provides exposure to more than 3,600 small cap stocks across developed markets outside Australia. These are businesses listed in countries like the United States, Japan, the United Kingdom, and Canada.

Small-cap shares tend to be more volatile than large caps, but that volatility is often the price investors pay for higher long-term growth. Smaller companies are typically earlier in their expansion cycle, which gives them more scope to grow earnings faster than established blue chips.

What I find compelling in 2026 is that many international small caps are coming from a relatively subdued period of performance. In contrast, large-cap indices have already enjoyed strong runs in recent years. That sets up a potential environment where leadership broadens beyond the biggest names.

Valuation and growth look well balanced

One of the reasons I am comfortable making a bullish call on the VISM ETF is that its underlying valuation does not look stretched.

According to Vanguard, the ETF is trading on a price-to-earnings ratio of around 17.9 times, which I think is reasonable given its forecast earnings growth rate of roughly 12.5%. Return on equity sits at about 9.3%, and while the dividend yield is modest at 1.85%, this fund is clearly designed for growth rather than income.

In other words, investors are not paying extreme multiples for speculative growth. They are getting exposure to thousands of profitable businesses with genuine earnings momentum.

Diversification the ASX simply cannot match

Another reason I believe the Vanguard MSCI International Small Companies Index ETF could outperform the ASX 200 is diversification.

The Australian share market is heavily skewed toward banks, miners, and a handful of large industrials. By contrast, this Vanguard ETF spreads its exposure across thousands of companies, multiple sectors, and more than 20 developed economies.

The United States makes up about 63% of the portfolio, followed by Japan at 13%, with meaningful exposure to Europe and Canada as well. Sector exposure is broad, with holdings spanning technology, healthcare, industrials, consumer businesses, and energy.

No single stock dominates the portfolio. The largest holding, SanDisk Corp (NASDAQ: SNDK), represents well under half a percent of net assets. That structure reduces company-specific risk while still allowing investors to benefit from overall small-cap growth.

Why I think this Vanguard ETF can beat the ASX 200 index

If the ASX 200 delivers a 9% return in 2026, I think the VISM ETF has a realistic chance to exceed that by a meaningful margin.

Faster earnings growth, broader diversification, reasonable valuations, and exposure to international economic expansion all work in its favour. It will not outperform every year, and there will be volatility along the way. But on a forward-looking basis, the setup looks attractive to me.

For investors willing to accept higher short-term swings in pursuit of stronger long-term returns, I think Vanguard MSCI International Small Companies Index ETF is well placed to outperform.

The post Prediction: This unstoppable Vanguard ETF will crush the ASX 200 in 2026 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Bronwyn Allen covered earlier this month that ASX small-cap shares outperformed the larger players by almost 2.5 times in 2025. 

S&P/ASX All Ords Index (ASX: XAO) shares delivered total returns (capital growth plus dividends) of 10.56% last year.

Meanwhile, the S&P/ASX Small Ords Index (ASX: XSO) – tracks companies ranked 101 to 300 by market cap – delivered a total return of 24.96%.

Late last year, another report showed that investors were increasingly looking to capture opportunities across the full spectrum of the Australian equity market rather than concentrating exclusively on the blue-chip heavyweights.

A new report from VanEck Australia indicates that economic tailwinds could be coming for global small-cap companies. 

The case for global small caps 

According to VanEck Australia, we could be about to see a strong surge in global small caps. 

The report said that with markets forecasting two rate cuts in 2026 to stimulate demand, quality small companies could benefit should faster economic growth eventuate. 

These kinds of assets have historically outperformed during expansionary environments.

Additionally, global small companies are trading at historically low levels. 

The speculative 2024/25 rally led by mega-caps, notably the "Magnificent Seven" resulted in the relative underperformance of global small-caps, compared to the broader small-cap market as measured by the Russell 2000 over the past two years.

The report said the speculative rally has led to strong outperformance of low-quality small companies. This has come as investors sought those companies that may have been positioned to benefit from the rise of AI, with less consideration of profitability. 

However, with political uncertainty, geopolitical risks, and inflation concerns flaring up again, speculative assets have started to come under pressure during the last quarter of 2025. 

If these market conditions persist, we could experience an uptick in market volatility in 2026 despite overall economic growth remaining strong. Taking history as a guide, this backdrop bodes well for a quality rotation within the global small companies complex.

According to VanEck, valuations for global small caps are reasonable/attractive relative to global large caps (MSCI World Index), with valuations at 25-year lows.

How to gain exposure to global small-cap companies?

Based on the report from VanEck, a continued easing of tariff policy could support a shift toward a manufacturing-led expansion in the US economy. This is an environment in which high-quality small-cap stocks have historically outperformed the broader market.

Further, markets are forecasting two more rate cuts in 2026. This is typically positive for small-caps, as cheaper access to credit enables them to grow their businesses.

We think the small size of these companies means that double digit growth is potentially more achievable as they are coming off a lower base than large caps.

Global quality small-caps could shine in 2026.

For investors looking to capture exposure to small-cap companies based outside of Australia, there are a few ASX ETFs to consider:

• VanEck MSCI International Small Companies Quality ETF (ASX: QSML) – 150 international developed market small cap quality growth securities. 
• Vanguard MSCI International Small Index ETF (ASX: VISM) – provides exposure to more than 3000 small companies listed in major developed countries. 
• Global X Russell 2000 ETF (ASX: RSSL) – Tracks approximately 2,000 companies that represent the smallest constituents of the Russell 3000 Index. 

The post Why the small-cap renaissance is only just beginning: Expert appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

This includes the market's largest ETF, the Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS).

Aussie investors have $22.58 billion invested in ASX VAS, which seeks to track the performance of the S&P/ASX 300 Index (ASX: XKO).

VAS ETF delivered a total gross return of 10.07% last year, made up of 7.05% in capital growth and a dividend yield of 3.02%.

The ETF closed out the year at $108.90 per unit on 31 December after retracing a little from its 52-week high of $113.18 on 16 October.

On Friday, VAS closed the week at $110.50 per unit, up 0.53%.

Let's recap the dividends to be paid out today for investors in VAS and other Vanguard ETFs.

How much will Vanguard ETF investors receive?

Here is a summary of the dividends that Vanguard will pay to investors today.

The Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS) will pay a dividend of 82.08 cents per unit.

Vanguard Australian Shares High Yield ETF (ASX: VHY), which tracks the FTSE Australia High Dividend Yield Index, will pay 65.83 cents per unit.

The Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS) will pay a dividend of 47.36 cents per unit.

The Vanguard MSCI Australian Small Companies Index ETF (ASX: VSO) will pay 129.60 cents per unit. The VSO tracks the MSCI Australian Shares Small Cap Index.

Vanguard FTSE Europe Shares ETF (ASX: VEQ), which tracks the FTSE Developed Europe All Cap Index (with net dividends reinvested) in Australian dollars before fees, will pay 61.60 cents per unit.

The Vanguard Australian Fixed Interest Index ETF (ASX: VAF) will pay a dividend of 42.44 cents per unit.

Vanguard Australian Property Securities Index ETF (ASX: VAP), which tracks the performance of the S&P/ASX 300 A-REIT Index before fees, will pay 45.61 cents per unit.

The Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets Shares ETF (ASX: VGE), which tracks the FTSE Emerging Markets All Cap China A Inclusion Index (with net dividends reinvested) in Australian dollars before fees, will pay 132.88 cents per unit.

Vanguard Ethically Conscious Australian Shares ETF (ASX: VETH), which tracks the FTSE Australia 300 Choice Index before fees, will pay 55.39 cents per unit.

The Vanguard MSCI International Small Companies Index ETF (ASX: VISM) will pay 85.44 cents per unit.

Vanguard MSCI Australian Large Companies Index ETF (ASX: VLC) will pay a dividend of 63.34 cents per unit.

The post Vanguard will pay ASX ETF dividends today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The ETF provider will pay investors next Monday, 19 January.

Let's take a look.

Next round of dividends for Vanguard ASX ETF investors

Here is a summary of the dividends that Vanguard will pay to investors holding some of its most popular products on 19 January.

The Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS), which seeks to track the performance of the S&P/ASX 300 Index (ASX: XKO) before fees, will pay a dividend of 82.08 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard Australian Shares High Yield ETF (ASX: VHY) tracks the FTSE Australia High Dividend Yield Index. The ASX VHY will pay 65.83 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS) provides exposure to about 1,500 businesses in developed nations outside Australia. This ETF will pay a dividend of 47.36 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard MSCI Australian Small Companies Index ETF (ASX: VSO) will pay 129.60 AU cents per unit. The VSO tracks the MSCI Australian Shares Small Cap Index.

The Vanguard FTSE Europe Shares ETF (ASX: VEQ) provides exposure to about 1,300 companies listed in major European markets. It tracks the FTSE Developed Europe All Cap Index (with net dividends reinvested) in Australian dollars before fees. It will pay 61.60 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard Australian Fixed Interest Index ETF (ASX: VAF) tracks the Bloomberg AusBond Composite 0+ Yr Index before fees. It will pay a dividend of 42.44 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard Australian Property Securities Index ETF (ASX: VAP) tracks the performance of the S&P/ASX 300 A-REIT Index before fees. It will pay 45.61 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets Shares ETF (ASX: VGE), which tracks the FTSE Emerging Markets All Cap China A Inclusion Index (with net dividends reinvested) in Australian dollars before fees, will pay 132.88 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard Ethically Conscious Australian Shares ETF (ASX: VETH) tracks the FTSE Australia 300 Choice Index before fees. It will pay 55.39 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard MSCI International Small Companies Index ETF (ASX: VISM) will pay a dividend of 85.44 AU cents per unit. The VISM ETF tracks the MSCI World ex-Australia Small Cap Index (with net dividends reinvested) in Australian dollars before fees.

Vanguard MSCI Australian Large Companies Index ETF (ASX: VLC), which tracks the MSCI Australian Shares Large Cap Index, will pay a dividend of 63.34 AU cents per unit.

The post Vanguard reveals next lot of dividends for VAS and other ASX ETFs appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

If you want to top up your holdings before payday, you'd better hurry, as the ex-dividend date is next Wednesday, 1 October.

Investors will receive their dividends on 16 October.

How much will Vanguard ASX ETF investors receive?

Here is a sample of the dividend amounts investors in some of the most popular Vanguard ETFs will receive on 16 October.

The Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS), which seeks to track the performance of the S&P/ASX 300 Index (ASX: XKO) before fees, will pay a dividend of 109.8836 cents per unit.

The Vanguard Diversified High Growth Index ETF (ASX: VDHG), which aims to track the weighted average return of various indices, will pay a distribution of 36.6162 cents per unit.

The Vanguard Australian Shares High Yield ETF (ASX: VHY) tracks the FTSE Australia High Dividend Yield Index. The ASX VHY will pay 110.2292 cents per unit.

The Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS) provides exposure to about 1,500 businesses in developed nations outside Australia. This ETF will pay a dividend of 37.0856 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard Ethically Conscious International Shares Index ETF (ASX: VESG) will pay 27.9914 AU cents per unit. The VESG tracks the FTSE Developed ex Australia Choice Index (with net dividends reinvested) in Australian dollars.

The Vanguard Australian Property Securities Index ETF (ASX: VAP) tracks the performance of the S&P/ASX 300 A-REIT Index. It will pay 28.7623 cents per unit.

The Vanguard FTSE Europe Shares ETF (ASX: VEQ) tracks the FTSE Developed Europe All Cap Index (with net dividends reinvested) in Australian dollars. It will pay 12.9677 cents per unit.

The Vanguard Ethically Conscious Australian Shares ETF (ASX: VETH) tracks the FTSE Australia 300 Choice Index. It will pay 59.9213 cents per unit.

The Vanguard Australian Fixed Interest Index ETF (ASX: VAF) tracks the Bloomberg AusBond Composite 0+ Yr Index before fees. It will pay a dividend of 21.5885 cents per unit.

The Vanguard MSCI International Small Companies Index ETF (ASX: VISM) will pay a dividend of 19.6512 AU cents per unit. The VISM ETF tracks the MSCI World ex-Australia Small Cap Index (with net dividends reinvested) in Australian dollars.

The Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets Shares ETF (ASX: VGE) tracks the FTSE Emerging Markets All Cap China A Inclusion Index (with net dividends reinvested) in Australian dollars. It will pay 30.0260 AU cents per unit.

Bear in mind that these are estimated distribution amounts. Vanguard will advise us of the finalised figures in due course.

Interested in reinvesting your dividends?

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

DRP elections must be made by 5pm on the record date, which is 2 October.

The post Own ASX VAS, VDHG or other Vanguard ETFs? Here's your next dividend appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

On Tuesday, we saw scores of internationally-focused ETFs reach either 52-week highs, multi-year highs, or all-time record prices.

Some of the most popular ETFs were among them, such as iShares S&P 500 ETF (ASX: IVV), Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ), Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS), Global X FANG+ ETF (ASX: FANG), and iShares Global 100 AUD ETF (ASX: IOO).

The ETFs soared due to ongoing strength in the US market, with the S&P 500 Index (SP: .INX) smashing another all-time high this week.

Over the years, Aussies have enthusiastically invested billions in ASX ETFs to gain easy, diversified exposure to international shares.

This trend continues today, with a record $5.28 billion invested in July alone.

Next week, scores of ETFs go ex-dividend, which means time is running out for investors who may want to top up their holdings.

To receive an ETF's next dividend, you must buy or already own the ETF before its ex-dividend date.

We provide a sample of ETFs going ex-dividend below.

If you want to buy any of these ETFs to score their next dividend (or 'distribution') payments, you'd better be quick!

24 ASX ETFs with ex-dividend dates next week

At this stage, most providers have only released estimated distribution amounts. They will release finalised figures in due course.

The post 24 ASX ETFs going ex-dividend next week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Well, today's a great day for you and other Vanguard ETF investors because it's dividend payday!

Vanguard will pay your distributions today. Here's how much you'll receive.

Own VAS or VGS ETFs? Here's how much you'll get today…

VAS is Australia's biggest ETF with $20.75 billion in funds under management (FUM), according to June data from the ASX.

VAS seeks to track the performance of the S&P/ASX 300 Index (ASX: XKO) before fees.

The VAS ETF will pay a dividend of 65.1416 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS) is the second biggest ETF on the Australian share market.

The VGS ETF tracks the MSCI World ex-Australia (with net dividends reinvested) in Australian dollars Index.

This ETF will pay a dividend of 128.4107 AU cents per unit.

Dividends for other Vanguard ETFs…

Here is a summary of the dividend amounts investors in these Vanguard ETFs will receive on Wednesday.

The Vanguard Australian Shares High Yield ETF (ASX: VHY) tracks the FTSE Australia High Dividend Yield Index. The ASX VHY will pay 201.0911 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard MSCI Australian Small Companies Index ETF (ASX: VSO) will pay 398.3168 AU cents per unit. The VSO tracks the MSCI Australian Shares Small Cap Index.

The Vanguard FTSE Europe Shares ETF (ASX: VEQ) tracks the FTSE Developed Europe All Cap Index (with net dividends reinvested) in Australian dollars before fees. It will pay 104.3118 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard Australian Fixed Interest Index ETF (ASX: VAF) tracks the Bloomberg AusBond Composite 0+ Yr Index before fees. It will pay a dividend of 53.6889 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard Australian Property Securities Index ETF (ASX: VAP) tracks the performance of the S&P/ASX 300 A-REIT Index before fees. It will pay 161.2115 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets Shares ETF (ASX: VGE), which tracks the FTSE Emerging Markets All Cap China A Inclusion Index (with net dividends reinvested) in Australian dollars before fees, will pay 20.1612 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard Ethically Conscious Australian Shares ETF (ASX: VETH) tracks the FTSE Australia 300 Choice Index before fees. It will pay 41.7466 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard MSCI International Small Companies Index ETF (ASX: VISM) will pay a dividend of 154.1283 AU cents per unit. The VISM ETF tracks the MSCI World ex-Australia Small Cap Index (with net dividends reinvested) in Australian dollars before fees.

What about the ASX VTS?

Investors in the Vanguard US Total Market Shares Index ETF (ASX: VTS) will receive their dividend on 28 July.

Vanguard will pay VTS ETF investors 91.32 US cents per unit.

Vanguard will convert the dividend into Australian currency on 22 July and advise investors of the final amount to be paid.

The post Why it's a great day for Vanguard ASX ETF investors! appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Investors will receive their dividends on 16 July.

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

How much will Vanguard ASX ETF investors get?

Here is a summary of the dividend amounts investors in some of the most popular Vanguard ETFs will receive on 16 July.

The Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS), which seeks to track the performance of the S&P/ASX 300 Index (ASX: XKO) before fees, will pay a dividend of 65.1416 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard Australian Shares High Yield ETF (ASX: VHY) tracks the FTSE Australia High Dividend Yield Index. The ASX VHY will pay 201.0911 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS) provides exposure to about 1,500 businesses in developed nations outside Australia. This ETF will pay a dividend of 128.4107 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard MSCI Australian Small Companies Index ETF (ASX: VSO) will pay 398.3168 AU cents per unit. The VSO tracks the MSCI Australian Shares Small Cap Index.

The Vanguard FTSE Europe Shares ETF (ASX: VEQ) provides exposure to about 1,300 companies listed in major European markets. It tracks the FTSE Developed Europe All Cap Index (with net dividends reinvested) in Australian dollars before fees. It will pay 104.3118 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard Australian Fixed Interest Index ETF (ASX: VAF) tracks the Bloomberg AusBond Composite 0+ Yr Index before fees. It will pay a dividend of 53.6889 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard Australian Property Securities Index ETF (ASX: VAP) tracks the performance of the S&P/ASX 300 A-REIT Index before fees. It will pay 161.2115 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets Shares ETF (ASX: VGE), which tracks the FTSE Emerging Markets All Cap China A Inclusion Index (with net dividends reinvested) in Australian dollars before fees, will pay 20.1612 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard Ethically Conscious Australian Shares ETF (ASX: VETH) tracks the FTSE Australia 300 Choice Index before fees. It will pay 41.7466 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard MSCI International Small Companies Index ETF (ASX: VISM) will pay a dividend of 154.1283 AU cents per unit. The VISM ETF tracks the MSCI World ex-Australia Small Cap Index (with net dividends reinvested) in Australian dollars before fees.

Want to reinvest your dividends?

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

DRP elections must be made by 5pm on the record date, which is 2 July.

Recent research by Vanguard shows ETFs are more resilient during market turbulence than individual shares.

The post Own Vanguard ASX ETFs? Here's your next dividend and when it's coming appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The latest BetaShares data shows there is now $255.3 billion invested in ETFs.

Overall ETF investment increased by 34.8% — or $66 billion — in the 12 months to 28 February.

For ETF owners, it's probably comforting to know that so many other Australians also see ETFs as a great way to invest.

And there's another reason to feel happy about your ETF investments today.

It's payday for Vanguard ETF investors…

Vanguard will pay the following distributions (or dividends) to ETF investors today.

The Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS), which tracks the S&P/ASX 300 Index (ASX: XKO), will pay 72.8373 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS), which tracks the MSCI World ex-Australia (with net dividends reinvested) in Australian dollars Index, will pay 147.7026 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard Australian Shares High Yield ETF (ASX: VHY) tracks the FTSE Australia High Dividend Yield Index. It will pay 244.9839 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard Diversified High Growth Index ETF (ASX: VDHG) provides exposure to 16,000 local and international shares. The VDHG ETF will pay 93.7006 AU cents per unit to investors today.

The Vanguard MSCI Australian Large Companies Index ETF (ASX: VLC), which tracks the MSCI Australian Shares Large Cap Index, will pay 107.1923 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets Shares ETF (ASX: VGE) tracks the FTSE Emerging Markets All Cap China A Inclusion Index (with net dividends reinvested) in Australian dollars. It will pay 15.9942 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard Australian Property Securities Index ETF (ASX: VAP) tracks the performance of the S&P/ASX 300 A-REIT Index. It will pay 83.3816 AU cents per unit to investors today.

The Vanguard Australian Fixed Interest Index ETF (ASX: VAF) tracks the Bloomberg AusBond Composite 0+ Yr Index. It will pay 25.1104 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard MSCI International Small Companies Index ETF (ASX: VISM) will pay 62.7420 AU cents per unit today. The VISM ETF tracks the MSCI World ex-Australia Small Cap Index (with net dividends reinvested) in Australian dollars.

The Vanguard Ethically Conscious Australian Shares ETF (ASX: VETH) tracks the FTSE Australia 300 Choice Index. It will pay 37.3359 AU cents per unit today.

Aussie investors were buying the dip in ETFs during last week's market sell-off. Here are the 7 most popular ETFs bought.

The post Here's why it's a great day to own Vanguard ASX ETFs appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Investors who own any of the 25 Australian Vanguard ETFs, including the largest on the market, the Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS), will receive their dividends on 16 April.

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

How much will ETF investors get?

Here is a summary of the dividend amounts that investors in some of the most popular ASX ETFs will receive on 16 April.

The ASX VAS, which seeks to track the performance of the S&P/ASX 300 Index (ASX: XKO) before fees, will pay 72.8373 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard Australian Shares High Yield ETF (ASX: VHY), which tracks the FTSE Australia High Dividend Yield Index, will pay 244.9839 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard Diversified High Growth Index ETF (ASX: VDHG) provides exposure to 16,000 ASX and international shares. The VDHG ETF will pay 93.7006 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS) provides exposure to 1,500 listed companies from developed nations outside Australia. This ETF will pay 147.7026 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard MSCI Australian Large Companies Index ETF (ASX: VLC) tracks the MSCI Australian Shares Large Cap Index before fees. It will pay 107.1923 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard Australian Fixed Interest Index ETF (ASX: VAF) tracks the Bloomberg AusBond Composite 0+ Yr Index before fees. It will pay 25.1104 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard Australian Property Securities Index ETF (ASX: VAP) tracks the performance of the S&P/ASX 300 A-REIT Index before fees. It will pay 83.3816 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets Shares ETF (ASX: VGE), which tracks the FTSE Emerging Markets All Cap China A Inclusion Index (with net dividends reinvested) in Australian dollars before fees, will pay 15.9942 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard Ethically Conscious Australian Shares ETF (ASX: VETH) tracks the FTSE Australia 300 Choice Index before fees. It will pay 37.3359 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard MSCI International Small Companies Index ETF (ASX: VISM) will pay 62.7420 AU cents per unit. The VISM ETF tracks the MSCI World ex-Australia Small Cap Index (with net dividends reinvested) in Australian dollars before fees.

A distribution reinvestment plan (DRP) is available for all 25 ETFs.

DRP elections must be made by 5pm on the record date, which is 2 April.

You can check out the half-year reports for each of these ETFs here.

The post Own Vanguard ASX ETFs? Here's how much you'll receive in dividends and when appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Small-cap companies tend to do better when rates are lower because this reduces the cost of the debt they need to carry to keep on investing in their growth and development.

ETF issuer Vanguard says small-cap options are already more popular with US investors following the Federal Reserve's two interest rate cuts this year.

There was the bigger-than-expected first rate cut of 50 basis points in September, followed by a second rate cut of 25 basis points this month.

In the latest quarterly Vanguard ETF Industry Perspectives newsletter, equity index senior investment product manager, Andrey Kotlyarenko said money flows into small-cap US ETFs have been increasing.

Historically, he said this was a pattern that usually coincided with interest rate cuts.

Kotlyarenko commented:

The Fed's 50-basis-point rate cut—its first cut since before the Fed began raising rates in response to the inflationary spike driven by the COVID-19 pandemic—created a fresh opportunity to look closely at small-cap equities, which historically have outperformed the broader market after rate cuts.

The lower cost of capital that has followed rate cuts has correlated with investors showing greater interest in smaller companies, whose growth prospects can be hampered when borrowing costs are high.

Historical link between small-cap ETFs and interest rates

With further rate cuts expected in many countries next year, including Australia, Kotlyarenko said investors appeared more bullish on small-cap stocks now.

Kotlyarenko said Q3 inflows into small-cap ETFs in the US had leapt to $16.5 billion. This was higher than the inflows over the previous six months, which only totalled $9.4 billion.

The trend of small-cap ETFs performing better when rates are lower or falling is universal across the most recent historical rate-cutting cycles, Kotlyarenko said.

He commented:

During other rate-cutting cycles—such as the dot-com bubble, the global financial crisis, and the post-COVID pandemic recovery—interest in small-caps spiked.

In the 12 months following those initial rate cuts, returns of the four main US small-cap indexes performed strongly.

More to the point, each of these indexes outperformed the broad equity market during those past rate-cutting cycles.

But crucially, each small-cap index isn't built quite the same as another, so their performances can diverge.

For example, during the first year of COVID-19, when central banks worldwide slashed interest rates, the four main US small-cap indexes soared.

However, there was a 6.66% disparity in performance between the No. 1 performing index, the Russell 2000, and the No. 4 performing index, the CRSP US Small Cap Index.

Let's examine some of the ASX ETFs available to Aussie investors that track small-cap stocks either here or overseas, and review how they are performing in the year-to-date (YTD) and over the past 12 months.

How are small-cap ASX ETFs performing?

In 2024, we have indeed seen an increase in the unit price of several ASX small-cap ETFs.

Not only that, but some of them are outperforming ASX ETFs that track the ASX 200 or ASX 300, which incorporate large-caps like Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA) and BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP).

Below are four examples of ASX ETFs tracking small-cap shares. Take note of their year-to-date and 12-month growth rates compared to those of two peers that track the ASX 200 and ASX 300.

The iShares Core S&P/ASX 200 ETF (ASX: IOZ) tracks the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO). On Tuesday, it is trading for $33.84 per unit, up 9.7% YTD and 19.84% over 12 months.

The Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS) tracks the S&P/ASX 300 Index (ASX: XKO). Today, it is trading for $104.26 per unit, up 10.69% YTD and 20.12% over 12 months.

ASX ETFs tracking Aussie small-cap shares

iShares S&P/ASX Small Ordinaries ETF (ASX: ISO)

The iShares S&P/ASX Small Ordinaries ETF is trading at $4.85 per unit. It's up 6.59% in 2024 and up 17.15% over the past 12 months.

The ISO ETF aims to track the performance of the S&P/ASX Small Ordinaries Accumulation Index, before fees.

The index measures the performance of small-cap ASX shares in the ASX 300, excluding the S&P/ASX 100 Index (ASX: XTO).

The ETF's top three underlying holdings are Life 360 Ltd (ASX 360), Alcoa Corporation CDI (ASX: AAI), and Zip Co Ltd (ASX: ZIP). The management fee is 0.55%.

Vanguard MSCI Australian Small Companies Index ETF (ASX: VSO)

The Vanguard MSCI Australian Small Companies Index ETF is trading at $69.76 per unit. It's up 9.86% in 2024 and up 18.44% over the past 12 months.

The VSO ETF aims to track the performance of the MSCI Australian Shares Small Cap Index before fees. The index includes stocks that pass certain liquidity and market capitalisation criteria.

Its top three holdings are Evolution Mining Ltd (ASX: EVN), NextDC Ltd (ASX: NXT), and JB Hi-Fi Ltd (ASX: JBH). The management fee is 0.3%.

ASX ETFs tracking US or international small-cap shares

iShares S&P Small-Cap ETF (ASX: IJR)

The iShares S&P Small-Cap ETF is trading at $196 per unit. It's up 22.68% in 2024 and up 33.79% over the past 12 months.

The IJR ETF aims to track the performance of the S&P Small-Cap 600, before fees.

The index measures the performance of the small-cap segment of the US stock market. It is comprised of 600 companies with a market capitalisation of between US$1 billion and US$6.7 billion.

The ETF's top three equity holdings are Mueller Industries Inc (NYSE: MLI), Carpenter Technology Corporation (NYSE: CRS), and Comerica Inc (NYSE: CMA). The management fee is 0.07%.

Vanguard MSCI International Small Companies Index ETF (ASX: VISM)

The Vanguard MSCI International Small Companies Index ETF is trading at $70.31 per unit. It's up 17.84% in 2024 and up 25.06% over the past 12 months.

The VISM ETF seeks to track the returns of the MSCI World ex-Australia Small Cap Index (with net dividends reinvested) in Australian dollars before fees.

The index tracks the performance of small-cap companies in 22 developed countries (excluding Australia). They include the United States, Canada, Japan, and Europe.

Its top three holdings are Carvana Co (NYSE: CVNA), Interactive Brokers Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: IBKR), and Nutanix Inc (NASDAQ: NTNX). The management fee is 0.32%.

The post Here's why small-cap ASX ETFs are on the rise appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Investors who own any of the 23 Australian Vanguard ETFs, including the Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS), will receive their dividend payments on 16 October.

According to the calendar, the ex-dividend date is 1 October, and the record date is 2 October.

Investors who own the US Vanguard ETF, the Vanguard US Total Market Shares Index AUD ETF (ASX: VTS), will receive their dividend payment on 24 October.

According to the calendar, the ex-dividend date is tomorrow, 27 September. The record date is 30 September.

The dividend amount for the VTS ETF is 87.07 US cents. Vanguard says this will be converted into Australian currency on the foreign exchange date, which will be 21 October.

How much will investors in Australian Vanguard ETFs get?

Here is a summary of the dividend amounts that investors in some of the most popular ETFs will receive on 16 October.

The VAS ETF, which seeks to track the performance of the S&P/ASX 300 Index (ASX: XKO) before fees, will pay 103.3194 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard Australian Shares High Yield ETF (ASX: VHY) is one of the best-performing Australian shares exchange-traded funds. It will pay 104.4812 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard Diversified High Growth Index ETF (ASX: VDHG) provides exposure to 16,000 ASX and international shares. The VDHG ETF will pay 36.9679 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard Ethically Conscious Australian Shares ETF (ASX: VETH) tracks the FTSE Australia 300 Choice Index before fees. It will pay 61.2972 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS) provides exposure to 1,500 listed companies from developed countries outside Australia. This ETF will pay 28.8055 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard Australian Property Securities Index ETF (ASX: VAP), which seeks to track the performance of the S&P/ASX 300 A-REIT Index before fees, will pay 41.8085 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard MSCI Australian Large Companies Index ETF (ASX: VLC) tracks the MSCI Australian Shares Large Cap Index before fees. It will pay 86.0026 AU cents per unit.

The Vanguard MSCI International Small Companies Index ETF (ASX: VISM) will pay 24.1001 AU cents per unit. The VISM ETF seeks to track the performance of the MSCI World ex-Australia Small Cap Index (with net dividends reinvested) in Australian dollars before fees.

A distribution reinvestment plan (DRP) is available for all the Australian ETFs above.

DRP elections must be made by 5pm on the record date, which is 2 October.

The post Own these popular Vanguard ETFs? Here's the latest on your dividends appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

But Vanguard has dozens of different ETFs covering all sorts of sectors of global financial markets. So today, let's discuss three of Vanguard's lesser-known funds, and why I think they could be worth a look this September.

3 overlooked Vanguard ASX ETFs I think are worth a buy right now

Vanguard MSCI International Small Companies Index ETF (ASX: VISM)

There are many ASX ETFs on our share market that allow ASX investors to indirectly buy international shares. But there are hardly any that focus on small international companies. Well, this fund is an exception.

It gives ASX investors access to a massive portfolio of more than 4,000 smaller international shares. These hail from all over the world, with countries as diverse as Japan, Sweden, France, Singapore, and Israel all contributing holdings to VISM's portfolio.

In saying that, more than 60% of this ETF's underlying holdings come from the United States.

You probably won't have heard of too many of this ETF's top holdings, but they include Mattel, DraftKings, and Manhattan Associates.

This ETF has returned an average of 13.29% per annum over the past three years. I think it's certainly worth a look if you want to add some geographic diversity to your ASX portfolio this September.

Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets Shares ETF (ASX: VGE)

Another Vanguard ETF I think is worth a look at this month is the Vanguard Emerging Markets ETF. Like VISM, this fund is a useful one to incorporate into an ASX share portfolio if you're looking to boost your geographic diversification.

But you won't find many American or European companies here. This ETF focuses on emerging markets around the world. These include the likes of countries such as China, India, Taiwan, Brazil, South Africa, Egypt, and Pakistan.

It's obviously pretty difficult to invest in these kinds of markets from Australia, so this ETF handily fills that gap. Some of its top holdings include Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co, Alibaba, Vale SA, and Petroleo Brasileiro SA.

This ETF has returned an average of 5.85% per annum since its inception in 2013. It charges a management fee of 0.48% per annum.

Vanguard Global Infrastructure Index ETF (ASX: VBLD)

Infrastructure is another area that ASX investors might find difficult to invest in when going beyond our shores. The ASX sports a few infrastructure investments, such as Transurban Group (ASX: TCL). But they are becoming few and far between, especially since the old Sydney Airport went private last year.

Again, this ETF can help plug this hole. Its holdings are also dominated by North American companies, with the United States and Canada accounting for more than 80% of its holdings. But other countries like Japan, Spain, Hong Kong, and South Korea are also represented.

The Vanguard Global Infrastructure ETF comprises electricity generators, railroads, pipeline companies, water and gas distributors, and telecommunications providers. Many investors love these kinds of companies for their predictable cash flows and perceived safety from recessions and inflation.

As of 31 July, this ETF has returned an average of 7.73% per annum over the past three years. It asks a management fee of 0.48% per annum.

The post 3 Vanguard ASX ETFs I think are worth buying in September appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Even if you already own shares, ETFs can be a simple and cost-effective way of helping to diversify your portfolio across different companies, sectors, and geographic locations.

Due to their surging popularity among Aussie investors, the number of ETFs on the local exchange has skyrocketed in recent years. So even choosing which ETF to buy can be a challenge.

We asked our Foolish writers which ASX ETFs they believe are worth buying this month. Here is what the team came up with:

6 best ASX ETFs for March 2023 (smallest to largest)

VanEck Morningstar International Wide Moat ETF (ASX: GOAT), $25.09 million

BetaShares Australian Dividend Harvester (ASX: HVST), $178.96 million

Vanguard MSCI International Small Companies Index ETF (ASX: VISM), $251.86 million

VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat ETF (ASX: MOAT), $509.56 million

Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ), $2.60 billion

Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS), $12.24 billion

(Market capitalisations as at market close on 6 March 2023)

Why our Foolish writers love these ASX exchange-traded funds

VanEck Morningstar International Wide Moat ETF

What it does: This ETF provides investors with exposure to a portfolio of global companies that have attractive valuations and sustainable competitive advantages.

By James Mickleboro: Unlike the MOAT ETF, which focuses on US companies, this fund gives investors access to wide-moat companies from all over the world.

To be assigned a wide-moat rating, there must be very high confidence that a company's competitive advantage will remain for at least 20 years. It is for this reason, I believe the VanEck Morningstar International Wide Moat ETF could prove to be a great long-term option for ASX investors.

Among its 68 holdings are companies including Airbus, ASML, Mercadolibre, and Microsoft.

Over the last decade, the index the fund tracks has generated an average return of 16% per annum.

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro does not own units in the VanEck Morningstar International Wide Moat ETF.

BetaShares Australian Dividend Harvester

What it does: The BetaShares Australian Dividend Harvester intends to offer investors franked passive income above the net income yield of the broader ASX. It provides exposure to a diversified portfolio of ASX shares. The ETF's top holdings are in the financials sector (30%) and the materials sector (25%).

By Bernd Struben: With interest rates likely to remain elevated for some time, making share price gains harder to come by, this high-yielding ETF could offer some welcome passive income for ASX investors.

Based on the past 12 months, the fund's yield is 7.2%, with a grossed-up yield of 10.1%. The franking level was 93%, as at 31 January.

Naturally, movements in the ETF's share price could see investors pocket more or less than this when they sell the stock.

Over the past six months, the BetaShares Australian Dividend Harvester share price is up 3.8%. During that time, it delivered a net return (after fees) of 5.9% and a grossed-up yield (also post fees) of 7.1%.

The dividends are paid out monthly.

Motley Fool contributor Bernd Struben does not own units in the BetaShares Australian Dividend Harvester.

Vanguard MSCI International Small Companies Index ETF

What it does: This Vanguard ETF seeks to track the performance of the MSCI World ex-Australia Small Cap Index, providing investors with an easy way to gain diversified exposure to some of the most promising small companies abroad.

By Mitchell Lawler: Studies into the characteristics of global outperformers over the last decade have suggested that small-cap shares are far more likely to produce 10X returns than large-caps.

I believe this ETF provides an ideal way of gaining exposure to companies with, arguably, the greatest chance of achieving market-beating returns over time. Additionally, the fund excludes Australian small-caps, which helps with greater geographic portfolio diversification.

For reference, around 62% of the ETF is weighted toward companies located in the United States. This includes US-listed names such as Axon Enterprises Inc, Crocs Inc, and Macy's Inc.

The management fee is currently 0.32% per annum.

Motley Fool contributor Mitchell Lawler does not own units in the Vanguard MSCI International Small Companies ETF.

VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat ETF

What it does: This ETF invests in companies with competitive advantages that are predicted by analysts to almost certainly endure for the next decade, and probably for two decades.

By Tristan Harrison: Competitive advantages, or economic moats, can come in a number of different forms, including cost advantages, patents, brands, regulatory licenses, switching costs, network effects, and efficient scale.

By only focusing on companies with strong competitive advantages, this ETF's portfolio only owns quality businesses. On top of that, the ETF only invests if the target business is trading at a good price relative to its 'fair value', as judged by Morningstar analysts.

Past performance is not a guarantee of future results, but this ETF has returned an average of 14.5% per annum over the past five years.

Motley Fool contributor Tristan Harrison does not own units in the VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat ETF.

Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF

What it does: This ASX ETF from BetaShares is an index fund. Not just any index fund, though; this ETF covers the American NASDAQ 100 (NASDAQ: NDX). The NASDAQ is the exchange where most of the US's tech shares are listed. As such, this is well-known as a very tech-heavy ETF.

By Sebastian Bowen: I consider this NASDAQ 100 fund a bet on American tech going forward. You'll get exposure to the giants like Apple and Amazon, as well as smaller tech names like Texas Instruments, Adobe, Intuit and MercadoLibre.

The BetaShares Nasdaq ETF has given investors some stunning returns in recent years. As of 31 January, this fund has averaged a return of 15.24% per annum over the past five years, and 15.65% per annum since its inception in 2015.

Past performance is never a guarantee of future returns, but I still think investors have a great way to add exposure to some of the best companies in the world with this ETF.

Motley Fool contributor Sebastian Bowen owns shares in Amazon, Apple and Adobe.

Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF

What it does: The Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF aims to track the S&P/ASX 300 Index (ASX: XKO) which, in turn, seeks to provide exposure to the broader Australian stock market.

By Brooke Cooper: It's far from a ground-breaking recommendation, and that's one of the reasons I like the Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF.

Perhaps the best and most simple way to help protect a portfolio is to diversify, and one of the simplest ways to diversify is to invest in an index-tracking ASX ETF.

The Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF is the only fund tracking the ASX 300 ­– arguably Australia's true benchmark index.

And while its management fees aren't the lowest out there, at 0.1% per annum, they're far from outrageous. Not to mention, this ETF pays out dividends each quarter.

Motley Fool contributor Brooke Cooper does not own units in the Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF.

The post Top ASX ETFs to buy in March 2023 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.