Some of the most exciting opportunities in the market today are being driven by global technology, automation, and cybersecurity trends. The good news is that ASX exchange traded funds (ETFs) make it easy to access these themes in a single trade.

Here are five ASX ETFs that could supercharge your portfolio.

BetaShares Asia Technology Tigers ETF (ASX: ASIA)

The first ASX ETF that could add serious growth potential is the BetaShares Asia Technology Tigers ETF.

This fund provides exposure to leading technology companies across Asia, a region that continues to digitise rapidly.

Its holdings include Tencent Holdings (SEHK: 700), Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (NYSE: TSM), and Alibaba Group (NYSE: BABA).

What makes this fund compelling is its exposure to markets that are still in earlier stages of digital adoption compared to the US, which could translate into strong long-term growth.

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

Another ASX ETF that could boost returns is the BetaShares Global Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF.

This ETF targets companies at the forefront of automation and AI, industries that are transforming how businesses operate.

Key holdings include NVIDIA (NASDAQ: NVDA), Intuitive Surgical (NASDAQ: ISRG), and Keyence.

Rather than focusing on a single niche, this ETF spreads exposure across multiple applications of AI and robotics, giving it a broad growth runway. It was recently recommended by the team at Betashares.

BetaShares S&P/ASX Australian Technology ETF (ASX: ATEC)

A third ASX ETF that could be worth considering is the BetaShares S&P/ASX Australian Technology ETF.

This fund provides exposure to Australia's leading technology companies, offering a way to back local innovation.

Its holdings include Xero Ltd (ASX: XRO), WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC), and TechnologyOne Ltd (ASX: TNE).

This ETF gives investors access to businesses that are growing both domestically and internationally, with scalable models and strong long-term potential. It was also recently recommended by the team at Betashares.

VanEck MSCI International Quality ETF (ASX: QUAL)

Another ASX ETF that could strengthen a portfolio is the VanEck MSCI International Quality ETF.

It focuses on high-quality global companies with strong balance sheets, stable earnings, and competitive advantages.

Its holdings include Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL), Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT), and Visa (NYSE: V).

This focus on quality helps balance out more aggressive growth exposures, providing a layer of resilience while still offering solid long-term returns. It was recently recommended by the team at VanEck.

BetaShares Global Cybersecurity ETF (ASX: HACK)

A fifth ASX ETF that could round out a portfolio is the BetaShares Global Cybersecurity ETF.

This fund targets companies involved in cybersecurity, an area that is becoming increasingly critical as digital threats continue to rise.

Key holdings include CrowdStrike (NASDAQ: CRWD), Palo Alto Networks (NASDAQ: PANW), and Zscaler (NASDAQ: ZS).

As businesses and governments invest more heavily in protecting data and systems, demand for cybersecurity solutions is expected to grow.

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Let's see, courtesy of The Bull, if it rates them as buys, holds, or sells:

Betashares Global Royalties ETF (ASX: ROYL)

The wealth advisory firm thinks this ETF could be a buy this week.

It highlights its strong track record since inception and its attractive and predictable income as reasons to consider the fund. It said:

This exchange traded fund focuses on global companies earning royalty and intellectual property income. The benefit from companies producing royalty income is the predictable nature derived from holding the underlying investments. Sector exposure at February 27, 2026 included gold, oil, gas, pharmaceuticals and semiconductors.

Geographical exposure includes the US, Canada and Brazil. Since its inception in September 2022, the fund had returned 19.77 per cent per annum as of March 31, 2026. ROYL can be considered a solid inclusion in a balanced portfolio.

iShares MSCI Emerging Markets AUD ETF (ASX: IEM)

DP Wealth Advisory has named this emerging market fund as a hold this week.

While it is positive on what it offers investors, it isn't enough for a buy rating. It commented:

This exchange traded fund provides exposure to big and mid sized companies in emerging markets. Geographical exposure includes China, India and South Korea, among others.

The average annual total return over three years was 15.30 per cent as of March 31, 2026. A benefit of the ETF is providing exposure to companies and economies that some would find difficult to source as an individual investor.

Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF (ASX: HACK)

This cybersecurity focused ASX ETF has been named as a sell by DP Wealth Advisory.

While the fund has been a strong performer in recent years, it thinks investors may be better avoiding it while AI disruption concerns weigh on software stocks. It explains:

This exchange traded fund tracks the Nasdaq Cyber Security Index and provides investors with exposure to the rapidly growing and ever evolving cyber security theme. Names held within the ETF included CrowdStrike Holdings, Palo Alto Networks and Cisco Systems as at April 8, 2026.

After performing strongly for the past five years, this ETF, along with other software focused investments, have been under pressure due to fears artificial intelligence large language models (LLM) could significantly disrupt software-as-a-service (SaaS) businesses. While these concerns may be over done, it's safer to take profits and avoid the SaaS sector until more certainty emerges.

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Whether you are seeking exposure to megatrends, fast-growing emerging markets, or long-term structural themes, the ETFs below offer a compelling mix for a small, high-impact investment.

Here are three ASX ETFs worth considering with $3,000 this December.

Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF (ASX: HACK)

In recent years, cybersecurity has become a non-negotiable expense for businesses, governments, and consumers. With cyberattacks increasing in frequency, complexity, and cost, global spending on digital defence is surging.

The Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF gives investors exposure to leading cybersecurity companies such as CrowdStrike Holdings (NASDAQ: CRWD), Palo Alto Networks (NASDAQ: PANW), and Cisco Systems (NASDAQ: CSCO). These are businesses providing essential security infrastructure, software, and threat detection systems to organisations worldwide.

Demand for cybersecurity is not cyclical, it is structural. As more devices and services connect to the internet, the need for reliable protection grows even faster. For investors seeking long-term, tech-driven growth without the need to pick individual winners, this fund could be a compelling addition to a portfolio in December.

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

The Betashares Global Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF taps into two of the most transformative forces shaping the global economy: robotics and artificial intelligence.

These technologies are already reshaping manufacturing, medicine, logistics, retail, and consumer electronics, and the pace of adoption is accelerating. Among its holdings are companies leading the charge such as Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA), Intuitive Surgical (NASDAQ: ISRG), and ABB Ltd (SWX: ABBN). Nvidia powers the world's AI chips, Intuitive Surgical leads robotic-assisted surgery, and ABB is a global automation heavyweight.

They, and the rest of its holdings, look well-positioned for growth over the next decade and beyond. This bodes well for the performance of the Betashares Global Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF, which was recently recommended by Betashares.

Betashares India Quality ETF (ASX: IIND)

Finally, the Indian economy could be one of the most powerful growth stories of the next 20 years. With a young population, rising incomes, rapid urbanisation, and increasing global influence, the country is positioning itself as a major economic engine.

The Betashares India Quality ETF gives investors exposure to high-quality Indian stocks such as Infosys (NYSE: INFY), HDFC Bank (NSEI: HDFCBANK), and Tata Consultancy Services (NSEI: TCS). These are leaders in IT services, financials, and business outsourcing.

Overall, this ETF allows Australian investors to tap into India's growth without needing to pick individual stocks or navigate the complexities of investing directly in the country. It was also recently recommended by analysts at Betashares.

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But don't worry if you're not a fan of stock-picking. That's because exchange traded funds (ETFs) are here to save the day by offering simply access to large groups of stocks in one fell swoop.

With that in mind, here are three ASX ETFs that I would buy for the long term:

Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ)

The Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF offers investors exposure to the top 100 non-financial stocks listed on the Nasdaq exchange.

This effectively means a concentrated basket of the world's most innovative technology leaders. Inside the ASX ETF, you will find giants such as Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL), Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT), and Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA), along with rising players like Adobe (NASDAQ: ADBE) and Broadcom (NASDAQ: AVGO).

The Nasdaq 100 has historically outperformed most global indices thanks to its tilt toward fast-growing industries like cloud computing, artificial intelligence, consumer tech, and semiconductors. And with AI now driving a generational infrastructure buildout, many of the Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF's largest holdings remain central to that global transformation.

Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF (ASX: ASIA)

The Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF targets some of the most influential and fast-growing technology companies across China, Taiwan, and South Korea. Key holdings include Tencent Holdings (SEHK: 700), SK Hynix (KRX: 000660), Alibaba Group (NYSE: BABA), Samsung Electronics (KRX: 005930), Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (NYSE: TSM), and PDD Holdings (NASDAQ: PDD).

These companies sit at the heart of global megatrends like e-commerce, artificial intelligence, social media, and semiconductor manufacturing. Taiwan Semiconductor, for example, produces the world's most advanced chips and plays a crucial role in powering everything from smartphones to autonomous vehicles. Tencent and Alibaba, meanwhile, dominate entertainment, cloud, and digital payments across Asia.

Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF (ASX: HACK)

Cybersecurity has become one of the most essential industries in the digital economy, and the Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF provides simple access to the world leaders in the space.

Its portfolio includes CrowdStrike Holdings (NASDAQ: CRWD), Palo Alto Networks (NASDAQ: PANW), and Fortinet (NASDAQ: FTNT). These are companies using advanced AI-powered tools to protect governments, corporations, and consumers from increasingly complex cyber threats.

One standout holding is CrowdStrike. The company's Falcon platform is widely considered one of the most advanced security solutions available, capable of detecting threats in real time through machine learning. With cyberattacks rising globally and businesses moving more systems into the cloud, cybersecurity spending is expected to grow steadily for years to come.

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To illustrate, the iShares Core S&P/ASX 200 ETF (ASX: IOZ), a simple ASX 200 index fund, has returned 12.97% per annum since 31 October 2022.

The US markets have done far better, though. The iShares S&P 500 ETF (ASX: IVV) has returned an average of 21.4% over that same timespan. That's exceptional, given that this index's long-term average is about 7.5% per annum.

However, there is one ASX ETF that has put these funds to shame.

It is known as the Global X FANG+ ETF (ASX: FANG).

Over the three years to 31 October, this ASX ETF has delivered not a 20% or 30% return per annum. Not even 40%.

Its average rate of return has been an astounding 54.24% per annum. This astronomical rate of return would have been enough to turn $10,000 into roughly $36,700 over that three-year span.

So how has this high-flying ASX ETF done it?

FAANGing to the top

Well, FANG is a fund that only holds ten stocks within it. By contrast, the ASX 200 ETF holds, well 200, and the S&P 500 fund, 500.

Those ten stocks are special, though. As you can probably gather from the name, they include all five members of the old 'FAANG' club – Facebook (now Meta Platforms), Apple, Amazon, Netflix and Google (now Alphabet).

In addition to these five stocks, FANG also holds Broadcom, CrowdStrike, NVIDIA Corp, ServiceNow and Microsoft.

Microsoft and NVIDIA are members of the 'Magnificent 7' club that FAANG has morphed into. Meanwhile, Broadcom is a chipmaker and software stock. ServiceNow operates in the cloud-based business software space, and Crowdstrike is a leader in cybersecurity.

As you can imagine, all of these companies have enjoyed a phenomenal few years, thanks to the boom in interest in AI-related companies.

To illustrate, Broadcom stock is up approximately 645% since early December 2022. Some other notable winners include Crowdstrike (up 311%), Meta Platforms (up 425%) and, of course, NVIDIA (up a massive 948.5%).

Given that all ten of these FANG stocks have been unbridled winners, it's no surprise to see the ETF deliver such breathtaking gains.

So is this ASX ETF a screaming buy?

Well, that's the trillion-dollar question. There's no doubt that FANG's ten holdings are some of the best and most profitable companies in the world, and many will probably continue to be for years to come. However, that doesn't mean this ETF will continue to grow at 50%-plus every year going forward. A majority of its holdings are now worth more than US$1 trillion, and in many cases, far higher than that. There comes a point when companies simply cannot sustain growth rates due to sheer size.

This ETF is also heavily exposed to the US tech sector. It is highly concentrated and may be punished if the now-positive sentiment turns against tech shares.

It is difficult to judge what kind of future this ASX ETF holds in store for its investors. I would be surprised if it continues to see anything close to its recent blazing performance in the years ahead. But then again, it's not hard to make the case that it represents a stake in some of the world's top businesses. Investors should keep in mind that FANG represents a very narrow bet on a narrow range of companies, and judge the risks and potential rewards for themselves.

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Our homes, workplaces and even our governments are leaning more heavily into digital systems, smarter automation and cloud-driven technology. And when huge structural shifts like these occur, investors who position themselves early often reap the biggest rewards.

Fortunately, you don't need to be a tech expert or chase risky individual stocks to participate.

Several thematic ETFs provide simple, diversified exposure to the industries shaping the next decade. And if these megatrends continue gathering momentum, the ASX ETFs in this article could be among the strongest performers on the market.

BetaShares Cloud Computing ETF (ASX: CLDD)

Cloud computing is one of the most powerful long-term structural trends in technology. Every year, more businesses move their operations into the cloud, relying on scalable platforms for data storage, workflow management and AI-driven tools. The BetaShares Cloud Computing ETF gives investors access to the companies building and enabling this infrastructure.

The ASX ETF's portfolio includes global names such as Shopify (NASDAQ: SHOP), which powers cloud-based e-commerce; ServiceNow (NYSE: NOW), a leader in digital workflow automation; and Salesforce (NYSE: CRM), the world's largest cloud CRM provider. These companies don't just benefit from cloud adoption, they help accelerate it, creating sticky recurring revenue and deep customer integration.

BetaShares Global Cybersecurity ETF (ASX: HACK)

As the world becomes more digital, cyber threats are increasing at an alarming pace. Businesses, governments and individuals all require greater protection, and this is driving explosive growth in the cybersecurity sector. The BetaShares Global Cybersecurity ETF offers exposure to key players in this space.

This fund includes heavyweights such as CrowdStrike (NASDAQ: CRWD), known for its AI-powered endpoint protection; Palo Alto Networks (NASDAQ: PANW), a leader in enterprise network security; and Fortinet (NASDAQ: FTNT), which provides integrated cybersecurity solutions. These companies enjoy rising demand regardless of economic cycles because cybersecurity is no longer optional, it is essential.

And with cybercrime expected to cost trillions globally over the next decade, the BetaShares Global Cybersecurity ETF is positioned at the heart of a growth story that shows no signs of slowing.

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

Finally, robotics and artificial intelligence are transforming industries from manufacturing to healthcare. The BetaShares Global Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF provides access to companies leading these innovations.

Its holdings include Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA), the chipmaker powering most of the world's AI systems; ABB (SWX: ABBN), a global leader in industrial robotics; and Fanuc (TSE: 6954), which produces factory automation technologies used across automotive, electronics and aerospace manufacturing.

As automation spreads and AI becomes embedded in everyday business operations, companies in this ASX ETF's portfolio could enjoy substantial growth tailwinds.

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One of the easiest ways to do it is through exchange-traded funds (ETFs). They provide access to global markets and exposure to powerful growth trends, all without needing to pick individual stocks.

If you are investing with a time horizon of 20 years or more, the three ASX ETFs listed below could be among the most compelling options to buy and hold for the long haul. Here's why:

Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ)

The Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF is popular with investors and for good reason. It gives investors exposure to many of the largest tech stocks on Wall Street. This means instant access to names like Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL), Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT), Amazon (NASDAQ: AMZN), Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA), and Alphabet (NASDAQ: GOOGL).

Over the past two decades, these kinds of companies have been at the centre of global economic transformation. This includes from personal computing and e-commerce to artificial intelligence and cloud services. The good news is that this innovation isn't slowing down, positioning the fund for growth over the long term.

A standout holding is Nvidia, which has become the engine of the AI revolution. Its graphics processing units (GPUs) power everything from data centres to autonomous vehicles and cutting-edge research in artificial intelligence.

Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF (ASX: HACK)

Another ASX ETF that could be a great long-term pick is the Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF. It targets one of the fastest-growing sectors in technology: cybersecurity.

As the world shifts online, protecting data and networks has become mission-critical for governments, corporations, and individuals alike. This bodes well for the fund's holdings, which include global cybersecurity leaders and emerging players.

Among its holdings are Palo Alto Networks (NASDAQ: PANW), CrowdStrike (NASDAQ: CRWD), Fortinet (NASDAQ: FTNT), and Okta (NASDAQ: OKTA).

Betashares India Quality ETF (ASX: IIND)

Finally, the Betashares India Quality ETF could be a top buy and hold option. It opens the door to one of the world's most exciting growth stories – the Indian economy. The country is projected to become the world's third-largest economy within the next decade, powered by a young population, rapid urbanisation, and an expanding technology sector.

The Betashares India Quality ETF invests in high-quality Indian stocks with strong balance sheets and sustainable earnings growth. Its portfolio includes major financial, consumer, and technology names such as Infosys (NYSE: INFY), Reliance Industries (NSEI: RELIANCE), and Tata Consultancy Services (NSEI: TCS).

In respect to Infosys, it is a global IT services and consulting giant. It helps businesses worldwide with digital transformation, cloud integration, and AI adoption.

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But if you're not sure which shares to buy, don't worry!

That's because there are plenty of exchange-traded funds (ETFs) out there for investors to choose from.

They give you instant diversification, exposure to global themes, and an easier way to build a long-term portfolio without trying to pick winners and losers.

With that in mind, here are five top ASX ETFs worth considering in October:

Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ)

For growth-focused investors, the Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF is often the first stop they will make. And it isn't hard to see why. This ASX ETF tracks the Nasdaq 100 index, home to tech giants such as Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL), Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT), Amazon.com (NASDAQ: AMZN), and Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA). These are the stocks leading the charge in areas like artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and digital advertising. While the ride can be volatile, the long-term returns from the Nasdaq have been outstanding.

Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF (ASX: ASIA)

The Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF is another top option to consider in October. It provides exposure to the next generation of technology leaders across Asia. Think of names like Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (NYSE: TSM), Samsung Electronics, and Alibaba (NYSE: BABA). These are companies at the forefront of semiconductors, ecommerce, and cloud infrastructure. With Asia's middle class expanding rapidly, demand for digital services is only expected to grow, giving this ASX ETF significant long-term potential.

VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat ETF (ASX: MOAT)

The VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat ETF takes a different approach to the others. It invests in US companies that have durable competitive advantages and fair valuations. Its holdings change periodically but currently include Nike (NYSE: NKE), Walt Disney (NYSE: DIS), and PepsiCo (NASDAQ: PEP). The fund has a track record of outperforming broader US markets over time, making it a compelling buy-and-hold option.

Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF (ASX: HACK)

Cybersecurity is quickly becoming a necessity for businesses. That makes the Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF one of the most relevant ASX ETFs for the next decade. Its portfolio includes global leaders like CrowdStrike Holdings Inc (NASDAQ: CRWD), Palo Alto Networks Inc (NASDAQ: PANW), and Cisco Systems Inc (NASDAQ: CSCO). As threats escalate and spending on cybersecurity grows, this ETF could benefit from structural demand that doesn't depend on the economic cycle.

Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS)

For investors looking for core global exposure, the Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF could be a standout pick in October. It provides access to more than 1,200 international stocks across the US, Europe, and Asia. Holdings include names such as Nestle (SWX: NESN), Toyota Motor Corp (TYO: 7203), and Roche Holding AG (SWX: ROG). With broad diversification and Vanguard's low-cost structure, this fund is a simple yet powerful way to capture long-term market growth.

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Some ETFs focus on regular indices, whereas others focus on themes with the potential to deliver outsized returns.

Today we are going to look at the latter and three explosive ASX ETFs in particular that could reward patient investors over the coming decade and beyond. They are named below:

Betashares Crypto Innovators ETF (ASX: CRYP)

The Betashares Crypto Innovators ETF offers exposure to the world of cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology — without having to directly buy and store digital assets yourself. It invests in global companies building the infrastructure and services that support crypto adoption.

Holdings include Coinbase Global (NASDAQ: COIN), one of the world's leading crypto exchanges, and Galaxy Digital (TSX: GLXY), which is an investment firm focused on digital assets.

While crypto markets can be extremely volatile, the underlying blockchain technology has a wide range of potential applications, from decentralised finance to supply chain management. For investors who believe in the long-term growth of this space, the Betashares Crypto Innovators ETF offers an easy way to gain diversified exposure.

Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF (ASX: HACK)

Cybersecurity has become one of the fastest-growing areas of technology, as businesses and governments increase spending to protect critical systems from cyberattacks.

The Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF invests in leading cybersecurity companies like CrowdStrike (NASDAQ: CRWD), Palo Alto Networks (NASDAQ: PANW), and Fortinet (NASDAQ: FTNT). These businesses provide software, hardware, and services that safeguard data and defend against evolving threats.

With cyberattacks on the rise and the shift to cloud computing and remote work increasing the need for digital protection, the companies in this fund look set to benefit greatly.

Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF (ASX: ASIA)

Finally, the Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF targets some of the most dynamic technology companies across Asia (excluding Japan).

This allows investors to tap into a region experiencing rapid digital adoption and a growing middle class.

The fund's top holdings include TSMC (NYSE: TSM), which is the world's largest semiconductor manufacturer; Meituan (SEHK: 3690), a major player in food delivery and local services; and PDD Holdings (NASDAQ: PDD), one of China's fastest-growing e-commerce platforms and the owner of Temu.

With Asia expected to lead global economic growth in the coming decades, the Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF gives investors exposure to technology leaders at the heart of that transformation.

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And for ASX investors, exchange-traded funds (ETFs) offer one of the easiest ways to build a resilient portfolio that can ride out market cycles and capitalise on powerful global trends.

If you're looking to buy and hold for the next decade, here are three ASX ETFs that could make a strong case for a place in your portfolio.

Betashares Crypto Innovators ETF (ASX: CRYP)

While cryptocurrencies have endured bouts of extreme volatility, the infrastructure behind it is growing stronger by the year. The Betashares Crypto Innovators ETF provides exposure to a global portfolio of leading crypto-focused businesses – not the tokens themselves, but the picks and shovels of the digital asset economy.

This includes stocks like Coinbase (NASDAQ: COIN), one of the largest crypto exchanges in the world, Circle (NYSE: CRCL), which is a leading provider of stablecoins and related services, facilitating payments, commerce, and financial applications on the blockchain.

Over the next decade, if digital assets continue to mature as an asset class, and institutional adoption ramps up, this fund could benefit greatly while avoiding the direct volatility of individual coins.

Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF (ASX: HACK)

With data breaches, ransomware attacks, and digital espionage on the rise, global governments and corporations are pouring billions into securing their infrastructure.

The Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF allows investors to tap into this powerful trend, with exposure to global leaders like Palo Alto Networks (NASDAQ: PANW), CrowdStrike (NASDAQ: CRWD), and Fortinet (NASDAQ: FTNT).

These companies are on the front lines of digital defence – providing firewalls, endpoint protection, threat intelligence, and next-generation cybersecurity solutions.

As the world becomes increasingly connected – from smart homes to autonomous vehicles to remote workforces – demand for cybersecurity will only intensify. This bodes well for the companies held by the fund.

Betashares Global Quality Leaders ETF (ASX: QLTY)

What if you could build a portfolio of the world's most consistent performers – companies with fortress balance sheets, high returns on equity, and long-term profit stability? That's the idea behind the Betashares Global Quality Leaders ETF.

This ASX ETF doesn't chase hype or fleeting trends. Instead, it filters for quality. Its holdings are typically those that have weathered economic storms, grown earnings steadily, and operated with discipline.

In a world where hot stocks can come and go, this fund quietly compounds by backing businesses with proven operating histories and economic moats. Over a 10-year horizon, that kind of consistency can become very powerful. It was recently named as one to consider buying by the team at Betashares.

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Whether your goal is to generate income, capital growth, or achieve global diversification, ETFs offer an accessible path to reaching your financial objectives — without the need to pick individual shares.

Here are three of the best ASX ETFs investors can consider for income, growth, and diversification.

Vanguard Australian Shares High Yield ETF (ASX: VHY)

If generating passive income is a priority, the Vanguard Australian Shares High Yield ETF is hard to ignore. This ASX ETF tracks the FTSE Australia High Dividend Yield Index, providing exposure to some of the highest-yielding shares on the ASX.

The fund includes a concentrated mix of blue-chip Australian stocks — often including the big four banks, major miners, and other mature businesses with consistent dividend payments. Historically, the fund has offered a dividend yield of around 5–6%, making it a compelling choice for retirees or anyone looking to boost their income stream.

Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF (ASX: HACK)

Technology continues to reshape the world, and cybersecurity is one of its most critical frontiers. The Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF gives investors exposure to a portfolio of global companies leading the charge in cybersecurity — an industry forecast to grow significantly over the next decade.

Top holdings include global names such as Palo Alto Networks (NASDAQ: PANW), Fortinet (NASDAQ: FTNT), and CrowdStrike (NASDAQ: CRWD). These companies play a vital role in defending organisations, governments, and individuals against digital threats — an area with increasing demand as cyberattacks grow in frequency and complexity.

With strong secular tailwinds and a global footprint, this fund could deliver substantial growth over the next decade.

Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS)

Finally, the Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF provides investors with broad diversification by tracking the performance of over 1,500 large and mid-cap companies across a multitude of developed countries (but excluding Australia).

It gives investors exposure to global blue chips such as Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL), Nestlé (SWX: NESN), and Toyota (TYO: 7203), spreading risk across both regions and industries. By including the U.S., Europe, and Asia, this popular ASX ETF reduces home bias and smooths out volatility tied to the Australian economy.

Overall, for those wanting a strong core holding in their portfolio, the Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF offers long-term stability and global reach.

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But for those who are looking to do better, certain exchange-traded funds (ETFs) listed on the ASX could offer a real chance to outperform.

These ETFs target powerful trends, innovation, and high-growth sectors that could provide stronger returns over the next decade. Here are three that stand out.

Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ)

This hugely popular ASX ETF gives investors access to the 100 largest non-financial companies listed on the Nasdaq exchange. This includes some of the most dominant technology names on the planet.

The portfolio is heavily weighted to companies like Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL), Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT), Amazon (NASDAQ: AMZN), NVIDIA (NASDAQ: NVDA), and Alphabet (NASDAQ: GOOGL). These are businesses with powerful competitive advantages, global scale, and long runways for growth across sectors such as cloud computing, AI, and digital infrastructure.

Despite their size, many of these companies are still growing earnings at double-digit rates. If they can maintain momentum — especially in emerging fields like artificial intelligence — this fund could continue delivering returns above 10% per annum.

Global X FANG+ ETF (ASX: FANG)

If you're looking for high-conviction exposure to the world's most innovative tech and internet stocks, the Global X FANG+ ETF is worth a look. This ASX ETF tracks an equal-weighted index of 10 leading technology and digital companies, including Meta Platforms (NASDAQ: META), Netflix (NASDAQ: NFLX), Crowdstrike (NASDAQ: CRWD), and Broadcom (NASDAQ: AVGO).

The Global X FANG+ ETF takes a narrower approach than the Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF, concentrating on disruptive growth companies that are shaping the digital economy. This could lead to more volatility, but also more upside in strong markets. Over the past decade, many of these stocks have significantly outperformed broader indices — and with innovation still running hot, that trend may continue.

Betashares S&P/ASX Australian Technology ETF (ASX: ATEC)

While global tech gets plenty of attention, some of the most exciting innovation is happening right here in Australia. The Betashares S&P/ASX Australian Technology ETF provides investors with exposure to locally listed tech stars such as Xero Ltd (ASX: XRO), WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC), NextDC Ltd (ASX: NXT), and Life360 Inc (ASX: 360).

These are companies with strong recurring revenue models, global aspirations, and high margins.

If you believe in the future of Australia's tech sector and want to back homegrown innovation, this fund could be a smart option — particularly over a 10-year horizon.

The post 3 fantastic ASX ETFs that could beat the market over 10 years appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

This can help offset some volatility and spread your portfolio around the Australian or global markets. 

However rather than spreading your portfolio geographically or across sectors, another benefit of ETFs is narrowing in on a specific market or theme you might be optimistic on. 

Here are two ASX ETFs with a niche focus on markets could continue to grow in the long term. 

Etfs Robo Global Robotics And Automation ETF (ASX: ROBO)

As the name suggests, this fund has a specific focus on robotics and artificial intelligence. 

According to the fund, it seeks to invest in companies that potentially stand to benefit from increased adoption and utilisation of robotics and artificial intelligence. These include those involved with industrial robotics and automation, non-industrial robots, and autonomous vehicles.

I like this niche focus due to the growing opportunity in these fields. 

According to research, the global robotics technology market size is estimated at US$94.54 billion in 2024. It is anticipated to reach around US$372.59 billion by 2034.

Despite focussing on the robotics and AI fields, the fund is highly diversified within the sector. In fact, no company currently represents more than 2.04% of the total fund. 

At the time of writing it is made up of 74 holdings. Its largest geographical representation being in the United States (43.5%) and Japan (21.49%). 

It's important to mention it has not always been smooth sailing for holders of the fund, and has experienced volatility. 

It has risen 10% over the last month. 

BetaShares Global Cybersecurity ETF (ASX: HACK)

This fund aims to track the performance of an index (before fees and expenses) that provides exposure to the leading companies in the global cybersecurity sector.

The logic behind it is simple: with cybercrime on the rise, the demand for cybersecurity services is expected to grow strongly for the foreseeable future.

It is made up of 32 holdings, with large exposure (78.2%) to the United States. 

It includes industry leaders such as Palo Alto Networks (NASDAQ: PANW) and CrowdStrike (NASDAQ: CRWD). 

The fund has risen 33.98% over the past year, reinforcing that investors agree there is value in this market. 

Foolish takeaway 

Many investors use ASX ETFs to track markets like the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) or S&P 500 Index (SP: .INX). 

ETFs that track these markets are great fundamental options for your portfolio. 

But if you already have holdings in these, niche ASX ETFs can be a way to call your shot on specific markets you anticipate will grow.

The post Narrowing it down: 2 ASX ETFs with a niche focus appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Yep, between 19 February and 13 March, the S&P 500 fell by 10.13%.

Over in the US, the big tech stocks like Apple, Microsoft, NVIDIA, Tesla and Amazon command the largest weighting on the stock market, just as the big four banks do here on the ASX.

Given this fall in the S&P 500, it will come as no surprise to hear that the 'magnificent seven' tech stocks had a rather nasty few weeks, too. For example, Apple stock tanked by more than 15% between 25 February and 13 March. Nvidia fared even worse, crashing 24% between 20 February and 10 March.

Over a similar period, Tesla shares plunged more than 38%, although there were probably other factors at play there.

More recent weeks have been kinder to some of the big tech stocks over the States.

But whether we have truly found a bottom and turned a corner remains to be seen. After all, we are set for a fairly dramatic week on global markets this week with President Donald Trump's tariff 'liberation day' fast approaching.

However, if an investor reckons we've hit or already seen a bottom in this big tech correction, there is one ASX ETF that might be a top buy.

One ASX ETF to buy if big tech has bottomed

That ASX ETF is the Global X FANG+ ETF (ASX: FANG). This exchange-traded fund (ETF) is essentially a pure-play bet on the biggest US tech stocks. Unlike most ASX ETFs, it holds a very small portfolio, with only ten underlying holdings at present. Those ten underlying holdings consist of six of the magnificent seven stocks (Tesla misses out), in addition to Netflix, Crowdstrike Holdings, ServiceNow and Broadcom.

These ten shares are given an equal weighting of approximately 10% each.

As such, if an ASX investor is looking for a quick and easy way to invest in the biggest tech stocks on the US markets, this ETF is a prime candidate. On an on-going basis, it is more expensive owning this ETF than the individual stocks, with FANG charging a management fee of 0.35% per annum.

As one would expect, FANG has also had a volatile few weeks. Between 18 February and 11 March, FANG units cratered by 17.22%. Those same units are still 17.5% down from where they were on 18 February.

Let's see how the rest of 2025 treats the Global X FANG+ ETF. If we have indeed seen a bottom for big tech over in the US, this will be an interesting fund to watch.

The post Think big tech has bottomed? Buy this ASX ETF appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Experts at Statista estimate the AI industry will be worth approximately $184 billion this year, and it should grow to over $826 billion by 2030, a nearly 30% annual growth rate.

Those same experts pegged machine learning as the most significant contributor to AI's growth. Machine learning gives AI a sense of intelligence, allowing it to analyse vast amounts of data for trends and patterns.

Some prominent growth stocks have the opportunity to create significant life-changing wealth for long-term investors. Remember: AI is likely still in its early chapters, so don't assume you're too late.

Consider these two potential millionaire-making AI stocks to buy and hold for the long term:

1. CrowdStrike Holdings

Cybersecurity isn't a new industry, but cyberattacks have become increasingly sophisticated and cause millions of dollars in damages. The increased stakes have created opportunities for next-generation security from companies like CrowdStrike Holdings (NASDAQ: CRWD). The company's Falcon XDR platform operates in the cloud, using machine learning to look for potential cyberthreats.

If you're familiar with CrowdStrike, you may know it issued a faulty update over the summer that caused a global IT outage. It may take a few quarters to confirm that this embarrassing incident won't hamper the company's growth, but so far, so good. Management is guiding for just over $3.9 billion in revenue for its full fiscal year, representing 27% growth from the prior year.

The company specialises in end-point security but has steadily expanded its platform. Management believes its total addressable market will increase to $250 billion by 2029. In other words, CrowdStrike still only owns about 1.5% of its long-term market.

And the business is already highly profitable. It has generated $1.1 billion in free cash flow over the past four quarters, which has swelled its balance sheet to about $3.5 billion in cash (net of debt). Those are the ingredients for a business that will eventually boost shareholder returns by gobbling up stock with share repurchases.

The stock isn't cheap; shares trade at a clear premium to its industry peers, as measured by enterprise value to revenue. Therefore, consider buying slowly and getting more aggressive when the broader market declines at some point. CrowdStrike is a long-term winner with a potentially decades-long growth runway that could make long-term investors very wealthy.

2. Snowflake

Data is arguably the most crucial ingredient for machine learning, highlighting Snowflake (NYSE: SNOW) as a mission-critical company in the AI industry.

Have you ever heard the expression "garbage in, garbage out"? Data must be well structured for machine learning applications. Snowflake allows companies to store, organise, and search their data through a cloud-based platform. They can also pull data from third-party sources through the company's marketplace.

Snowflake went public at a far too high valuation during a stock market bubble in late 2020. Slowing revenue growth, a CEO change, and competition from Databricks haven't helped the stock over these past four years, and it is still down nearly 60% from its peak. Given the company's rough few years, investors might be surprised at my optimism about Snowflake. The good news is that things are looking up.

The company operates a usage-based billing model, which is brilliant because data grows exponentially. More data means more usage on Snowflake and more revenue.

It essentially builds high net revenue retention (NRR) into the business. Snowflake's NRR was 127% in the third quarter, meaning existing customers spend significantly more once they start using it. Customer count grew 20% year over year in the third quarter, and the company now works with 754 of the companies in the Forbes Global 2000. With these trends, total revenue growth could hover at or above 20% for a long time.

Sure, it stinks that the stock hasn't performed, but this is about looking ahead. Snowflake's price-to-sales multiple was a mind-numbing 183 at its peak! Today, that's down to 16.

That's still not the cheapest you'll find on Wall Street, but a realistic valuation gives investors a reasonable shot at investment returns as the business grows. Snowflake's firm footing in the AI field, where data is exponentially created, could make it a massive company years from now, an outcome that could make investors a lot of money.

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The ETF seeks to track the performance of the NASDAQ-100 Index (NASDAQ: NDX) before fees. This index represents the 100 largest stocks on the NASDAQ by market capitalisation.

When people think of the NASDAQ 100, they think US tech shares.

That's fair enough, particularly given the dominant presence of the Magnificent Seven, which are either tech developers themselves or use high tech in their businesses.

But in reality, only about half (49.7%) of the NASDAQ 100 is tech stocks. The rest are communications shares (16.4%), consumer discretionary (13.4%), consumer staples (5.9%), health care (5.9%), and others.

Over the past 12 months, the Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF has risen by an impressive 30.19%. The NDQ ETF was trading at $47.68 per unit on Thursday, down 0.68% for the day.

So, which stocks have contributed most to another year of exceptional capital gains for the Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ)?

12 stocks pumping up the NDQ ETF

Nvidia Corp (NASDAQ: NVDA)

Shares in chip maker Nvidia have ripped 180.6% higher to US$135.34 over the past year.

It's no surprise that Nvidia is the fastest-growing stock within the Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF.

Arm Holdings PLC-ADR (NASDAQ: ARM)

The Arm Holdings share price has shot 118.6% higher to US$133.37 over the past year.

Arm is a British semiconductor and software design company based in England.

Constellation Energy Corp (NASDAQ: CEG)

Stock in Constellation Energy has risen 102.6% to US$253.39 over the past 12 months.

Constellation is one of the largest energy suppliers in the United States.

Netflix Inc (NASDAQ: NFLX)

Shares in streaming company Netflix have also contributed strongly to the growth of the Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF over the past year.

Netflix shares are up 83.1% to US$877.34.

Fortinet Inc (NASDAQ: FTNT)

Stock in cybersecurity services provider, Fortinet has risen 75% to US$94.06 per share.

Intuitive Surgical, Inc. (NASDAQ: ISRG)

The Intuitive Surgical share price is up 71% to US$535.55 per share.

Intuitive Surgical is a US biotech that develops and manufacturers clinical and surgical robotics.

Meta Platforms Inc (NASDAQ: META)

Stock in social media empire Meta has risen 70.1% to US$569.20 per share over the past 12 months.

Broadcom Inc (NASDAQ: AVGO)

Shares in Broadcom have ascended 68% to US$159.67 over the past year.

Broadcom is a US developer and manufacturer of semiconductor and infrastructure software products.

Booking Holdings (NASDAQ: BKNG)

Stock in Booking Holdings has lifted 66.8% to US$5,223.15 per share.

Booking is a US travel technology company and one of the priciest stocks, in dollar terms, within the NDQ ETF.

Crowdstrike Holdings Inc (NASDAQ: CRWD)

Stock in US cybersecurity company, Crowdstrike has risen by 65.5% to US$347.59 over the year.

Costco Wholesale Corporation (NASDAQ: COST)

The CostCo share price has ascended 61.6% to US$961.55 over the past year.

CostCo is a membership warehouse retailer that sells goods at wholesale prices.

Marvell Technology Inc (NASDAQ: MRVL)

Stock in Marvell Technology has risen 61.2% to US$90.10 per share over the past 12 months.

Marvell is a US semiconductor developer.

Price history snapshot: Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF

The Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF has risen by 125.4% over the past five years.

This compares to a 23.7% increase in the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO).

The post Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF (NDQ) is up 30% in a year. Which stocks have turbocharged its rise? appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA) shares have proven to be an excellent investment over the short and long terms. The stock has soared 2,700% in five years and, so far this year, is heading for an increase of almost 200%.

The reason behind this is simple: Nvidia has built an artificial intelligence (AI) empire, serving one of today's highest-growth areas. The current $200 billion AI market is forecast to reach $1 trillion by the end of the decade. As this growth takes place, Nvidia could be one of the biggest winners.

The tech company's dominance in AI chips and related products and services has helped it report triple-digit revenue growth in recent times, and at rock-solid levels of gross margin. If you haven't gotten in on Nvidia yet, though, you may be wondering whether now — ahead of the upcoming earnings report — would make a good time to invest in this hot stock. Below are two reasons to buy Nvidia before the November 20 report — and one reason to wait.

Reason to buy: Potential update on Blackwell

Nvidia is heading for a big moment, and the company probably will give us an update during the fiscal 2025 third-quarter earnings report next week. The tech powerhouse is launching its new Blackwell architecture and best-performing chip ever during the fourth quarter. It aims to ramp up production and generate billions of dollars in revenue during this time period, Nvidia said during its last earnings report back in August.

The tech giant also said at the time that demand for Blackwell surpassed supply, and this is expected to continue into next year. This tells us that customers are flocking to Nvidia for the new platform — and are even willing to wait for it.

The company has offered updates about the Blackwell launch during past earnings reports this year, so as we approach the key moment, it's likely we'll learn more about this major new release. Considering the forecast for billions in revenue as of the very first quarter of commercialisation, there's reason to be optimistic about Blackwell as a new growth driver for Nvidia.

If this top AI player offers us confirmation of these points — and potentially additional positive details — the stock could soar after November 20.

Reason to buy: Reasonable valuation in the world of growth stocks

Nvidia isn't the cheapest stock on the block, trading at more than 50x forward earnings estimates today. But it's important to put this into perspective. For a growth stock involved in AI, it's not the most expensive stock, either. Software company Palantir Technologies and cybersecurity giant CrowdStrike both trade at much higher levels by the same measure, for example.

NVDA Price-to-Earnings Ratio (Forward) data by YCharts.

Nvidia actually looks reasonably priced at today's level when considering both its track record and potential for earnings growth in the years to come. As mentioned, revenue has soared and a gross margin level of more than 70% shows solid profitability on sales. Moving forward, growth in the AI market, Nvidia's position as a leader, and the company's focus on innovation to stay ahead should keep earnings marching higher.

Potential good news from Nvidia on November 20 could push the stock higher, lifting its valuation, too. All of this makes Nvidia shares look like a great long-term growth stock to get into at today's price.

Reason to wait: Long-term investing means you don't have to time the market

Nvidia makes a great buy today because it's reasonably priced, considering its prospects, and may get a boost from any positive news on Blackwell during the upcoming earnings report. However, long-term investors don't have to rush into a particular stock to benefit from a potential short-term move.

This is because share performance over a period of a few days or weeks won't have much impact on returns if a stock is held for five years or longer. This is great news because you don't have to worry about timing the market and feeling disappointed if you miss out on one particular period of gains. If the company is solid and has bright long-term prospects, positive share-price performance will happen over time.

All of this means that there are some good reasons to buy Nvidia shares right now, ahead of the earnings report. However, if you'd rather wait — or need to wait to free up cash to invest — don't worry. An investment after the report or even further down the road still may score a big win for your portfolio over the long haul.

This article was originally published on Fool.com. All figures quoted in US dollars unless otherwise stated.

The post 2 reasons to buy Nvidia shares before November 20 (and 1 reason to wait) appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The S&P 500 Index (SP: .INX) notched another record closing high yesterday, putting the benchmark US index up 33.6% over the past year. However, not all US stocks have joined the rally.

Shares in Intel Corp (NASDAQ: INTC), for example, are down 34.9% since this time last year.

While the CrowdStrike Holdings Inc (NASDAQ: CRWD) share price is up 64.1% in a year, shares are down 23.6% since 8 July.

Nike Inc (NYSE: NKE) has also come under pressure, with shares down 14.9% over a year.

But, an increasing number of Aussie investors have seen the recent headwinds pressuring these blue-chip US stocks as an opportune time to buy the dip.

Aussie investors snapping up US stocks

New data from eToro showed that CrowdStrike, Nike, and Intel were the 'top risers' in the third quarter.

CrowdStrike saw a 77% increase in holders, Nike saw a 24% increase, and Intel followed with a 23% increase in holders over Q3, as these US stocks all came under selling pressure.

CrowdStrike led the pack as investors decided this was no falling knife but rather a rare opportunity after the cybersecurity company's share price plunged more than 40% in July. That came on the heels of CrowdStrike's jumbled update, which led to worldwide computer and system outages.

Nike's share price was hit after the company posted a 10% decrease in revenue in the past quarter amid stiff competition.

And Intel's shares were heavily sold off following a disappointing earnings report in August when the company announced plans to slash its workforce and suspend its dividend payouts.

Commenting on the big boost in interest for these three US stocks, eToro market analyst Josh Gilbert said, "Retail investors went on a hunt for bargains this past quarter, snapping up stocks whose share prices have taken a big hit."

Gilbert added:

The fact that many investors are able to look past short-term price movements of these stocks, such as CrowdStrike's outage, reaffirms their faith in these companies. Being reactive to market changes is a valuable skill for any investor.

Markets are dynamic, and the ability to quickly assess and adapt to new developments – whether in geopolitics, corporate actions, or economic data – can provide a significant edge in navigating volatility and seizing opportunities.

We know that most of our investors have long-term time horizons, so when they see high-quality businesses such as Nike sell-off, they're taking the opportunity with both hands.

As always, whether you're investing in ASX shares or US stocks, be sure to do your own research first. Or simply reach out for some expert advice.

The post 3 beaten-up US stocks Aussie investors are buying the dip on appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Just under 70% of BHP shares transactions were buys, and about 30% were sells. The trading activity came amid a continued decline in the iron ore price and the release of the miner's FY24 results.

The BHP share price fell 3.62% over the month, closing at $40.77 on 30 August.

Machine learning data solutions and services provider Appen Ltd (ASX: APX) was the third most traded share last month.

Appen shares skyrocketed 33.33% over the month, closing at $1 on 30 August.

The stock took a hit on 30 August upon the release of the company's half-year results.

Let's review the other ASX shares making up the 10 most traded stocks last month.

Top 10 most traded ASX shares in August

Here are the top 10 most traded ASX shares in August by volume (incorporating both buy and sell orders), according to Selfwealth Ltd (ASX: SWF) data.

We have also included the percentage of buy orders, which can indicate investors' conviction on each ASX share.

Top 10 most traded US stocks in August

NVIDIA Corp (NASDAQ: NVDA) was the most traded US stock by Selfwealth clients in August.

The graphics processing units (GPUs) chip maker released its second-quarter earnings last month.

Here are the top 10 most traded US stocks in August among Selfwealth investors.

The post Top 10 most traded ASX shares and US stocks in August appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

This article was originally published on Fool.com. All figures quoted in US dollars unless otherwise stated.

The very idea of investing during a recession might seem counterintuitive, but believe it or not, recessions can end up being incredibly lucrative opportunities. Why? Well, not all businesses are as sensitive to recessions as you might think. For example, I see these two artificial intelligence (AI) stocks as essentially recession-proof businesses thanks to their high levels of resiliency.

1. Microsoft

The chart below highlights Microsoft's (NASDAQ: MSFT) revenue and net income trends between January 2007 and December 2009. I deliberately chose this period because it shows the picture before, during, and after the Great Recession, which ran from December 2007 to June 2009 (the grey-shaded area of the chart).

Do you notice anything a little peculiar about Microsoft's business trends during the Great Recession?

MSFT Revenue (Quarterly) data by YCharts.

Although its revenue experienced some noticeable volatility throughout the Great Recession, Microsoft's sales actually remained higher during most quarters of that downturn than they were just prior to it. More importantly, its profitability did not take an overly pronounced hit either.

The only real blemish on Microsoft's business during that period came in the form of a sharp downturn in the quarter that ended June 30, 2009 -- right around the conclusion of the Great Recession. But it rebounded spectacularly just six months later when it generated $19 billion in sales and $6.7 billion of profit in its fiscal 2010's second quarter. That was thanks in part to its successful launch of Windows 7.

Microsoft's ability to generate growth even during times of widespread economic crisis and come out the other side stronger underscores the company's success in its relentless pursuit of innovation. Over the last several decades, Microsoft has evolved from a PC software powerhouse into a much more diversified business with segments spanning hardware devices, workplace productivity software, cloud computing, gaming, social media, and AI.

To me, Microsoft is one of the best stock picks in the tech sector, and would still be a prudent choice for investors to buy even during a recessionary period.

2. CrowdStrike

I'd understand if you're scratching your head at the notion that a volatile growth stock such as CrowdStrike (NASDAQ: CRWD) could be considered recession-proof. But one way to help identify recession-proof businesses is to look at what a company actually sells. For example, does it sell things people actually need or are its wares merely nice to have?

I'd argue that CrowdStrike's services fit squarely into the "something people need" category. Businesses can't really afford to disengage from data and identity protection or network security just because there is an economic downturn.

This makes cybersecurity platforms such as CrowdStrike more resistant to economic downturns than other areas of the software market. Need some proof? The narrow grey-shaded column in the graph below illustrates the COVID-19 recession -- which lasted from February 2020 to April 2020.

CRWD Revenue (Quarterly) data by YCharts.

Right around the onset of the pandemic, CrowdStrike began a period of accelerating sales growth. Of course, a big influence was that organizations had a heightened need for stronger cybersecurity as employees around the world traded office cubicles for work-from-home situations. Yet even several years after the crisis phase of the pandemic ended and social distancing efforts faded, CrowdStrike's revenue continued to soar, and the company is now consistently profitable.

Consider as well CrowdStrike's recent software update glitch, which caused major IT outages for many of its customers globally. For weeks, the company featured in media headlines, and the storylines weren't pretty. But last week, investors learned just how much of a toll the IT outage took on CrowdStrike.

As it turns out, CrowdStrike swiftly implemented strategies including flexible payment packages to encourage customer retention. All told, management is forecasting a $60 million impact to revenue as a result of these retention packages. Considering that CrowdStrike boasts $3.9 billion in annual recurring revenue (ARR), I wouldn't be too worried about a $60 million headwind. I think this speaks volumes about both the need for cybersecurity services generally and CrowdStrike's capabilities specifically.

Given that CrowdStrike has managed to navigate two Black Swan-style events in recent years and maintain healthy levels of revenue and profit, I see the stock as a solid opportunity even during times of economic uncertainty.

This article was originally published on Fool.com. All figures quoted in US dollars unless otherwise stated. 

This article was originally published on Fool.com. All figures quoted in US dollars unless otherwise stated.

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