My simple investing strategy if I had to start over

If I had to rebuild my portfolio from scratch today, my investing strategy would be much simpler than when I first started.

Instead of chasing speculative trends or trying to pick every market winner, I would focus on a balanced mix of high-quality ASX shares and diversified ETFs designed to deliver long-term growth, passive income and global exposure.

The core of my investing strategy would start with diversification.

Rather than relying heavily on one sector or one country, I would spread investments across Australian blue chips, global markets and technology-focused growth opportunities.

Australian exposure

For Australian exposure, I would begin with the Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS).

This ETF provides broad access to many of Australia’s largest companies, including banks, miners and industrial businesses. It also delivers solid dividend income, which can help compound returns over time through reinvestment.

Alongside that ETF, I would add selective ASX shares with reliable earnings and defensive characteristics. Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES) would likely feature prominently. The company owns high-quality retail and industrial businesses including Bunnings and Kmart, while also generating steady cash flow and dividends.

For infrastructure exposure, I would include Transurban Group (ASX: TCL). Infrastructure assets can add stability to an investing strategy because they often produce recurring revenue linked to population growth and inflation. That can become particularly valuable during periods of economic uncertainty.

Global reach and tech growth

However, if I were starting again today, I would place much greater emphasis on global growth and technology exposure than I did originally.

Artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing and digital infrastructure are reshaping industries worldwide, and I would want meaningful exposure to those long-term trends.

That is where the iShares S&P 500 ETF (ASX: IVV) would play a major role. This ETF gives investors access to some of the world’s largest technology companies, including Apple Inc (NASDAQ: AAPL) and Nvidia Corporation (NASDAQ: NVDA). These businesses continue benefiting from AI investment, digital transformation and expanding global demand for computing power.

To further strengthen diversification, I would also include the Vanguard MSCI International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS). This ETF provides exposure to developed international markets beyond Australia and reduces reliance on the local economy alone.

For a direct ASX tech growth opportunity, I would consider Xero Ltd (ASX: XRO). Xero has built a strong global software platform and continues expanding internationally, offering long-term growth potential despite short-term volatility.

Foolish Takeaway

Importantly, my investing strategy today would focus less on short-term market movements and more on consistency.

I would invest regularly, reinvest dividends where possible and avoid reacting emotionally to market volatility.

Starting over has a hidden advantage: it forces simplicity. And over long periods, a simple investing strategy built around diversification, quality businesses and long-term patience can often outperform more complicated approaches.

The post My simple investing strategy if I had to start over appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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Motley Fool contributor Marc Van Dinther has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Apple, Nvidia, Transurban Group, Wesfarmers, Xero, and iShares S&P 500 ETF. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Transurban Group and Xero. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Apple, Nvidia, Vanguard Msci Index International Shares ETF, Wesfarmers, and iShares S&P 500 ETF. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.