How I’d invest $20,000 in ASX shares before the end of FY26

With around a month left before the end of FY26, I think now could be a good time to put fresh money to work in ASX shares.

I would not rush just because the financial year is ending. The market will still be there in July. But if I had $20,000 ready to invest, I would use this period to add quality, global exposure, and long-term growth to my portfolio.

Here is how I would think about it.

I’d start with a global core

The first place I would look is an exchange-traded fund (ETF) with broad international exposure.

For me, the iShares S&P 500 AUD ETF (ASX: IVV) would be a strong candidate.

The IVV ETF gives investors exposure to America’s largest listed companies. I like that because the US market has a depth of world-class businesses that is difficult to replicate on the ASX alone.

This is not just about owning the biggest technology names. The S&P 500 includes companies across healthcare, financial services, consumer brands, industrials, digital platforms, payments, software, and communication services.

I’d consider a quality ASX blue chip

I would also look for direct exposure to a high-quality Australian business.

One ASX share I would consider is Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG).

Macquarie is not just a bank. It is a global financial group with exposure to asset management, infrastructure, commodities, markets, private capital, and the energy transition.

That makes earnings less predictable than a traditional domestic bank, but I think it also gives Macquarie more ways to grow over time.

I like businesses that can adapt as markets change. Macquarie has shown over many years that it can move capital and expertise into areas where it sees opportunity. That flexibility is valuable.

I’d keep room for an ASX tech stock

Finally, I would consider using part of the $20,000 to buy Xero Ltd (ASX: XRO) shares.

Xero has built a strong position in small business accounting software, but I think the bigger opportunity is broader than that.

It can help businesses with invoicing, payroll, tax, payments, cash flow, reporting, and more automated financial tasks over time.

The share price can be volatile, and investors still need to watch valuation and execution. But I think Xero has the sort of global software opportunity that can reward patience.

Foolish takeaway

If I were investing $20,000 before the end of FY26, I would focus on quality and long-term growth rather than trying to predict what the market will do over the next month.

A mix of global exposure, high-quality Australian businesses, and a world-class ASX tech stock would be my preference. That gives the portfolio several ways to grow without making the whole plan depend on one stock or one theme.

The end of the financial year can be a useful prompt to review a portfolio. But the real goal is much bigger than 30 June. I would want these investments working for me for years.

The post How I’d invest $20,000 in ASX shares before the end of FY26 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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Motley Fool contributor Grace Alvino 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 Macquarie Group, Xero, and iShares S&P 500 ETF. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Macquarie Group and Xero. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended 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.