There is no shortage of choice when it comes to exchange-traded funds (ETFs) on the ASX.

For me, the focus is not on finding something new or complicated. It is about selecting funds that can play a clear role in a portfolio and hold up over time.

Vanguard has built its reputation around low-cost, diversified investing, which is why I often find myself coming back to its range.

Here are five Vanguard ETFs I think are worth considering this month.

Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAS)

The VAS ETF is one of the simplest ways to gain exposure to the Australian share market.

It tracks a broad index that includes large, mid, and smaller companies. That means you are not just relying on the big banks and miners, even though they still make up a meaningful portion.

You also get exposure to businesses like BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP), Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA), CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL), as well as smaller names such as AMP Ltd (ASX: AMP), Collins Foods Ltd (ASX: CKF), and Appen Ltd (ASX: APX).

With a low fee and a dividend yield just under 3%, I think it remains a strong core holding for long-term investors.

Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (ASX: VGS)

The VGS ETF provides exposure to developed markets outside Australia.

It includes companies across the US, Europe, and other major economies, which helps diversify away from the local market.

What I like is the scale. You are getting access to around 1,300 companies across a wide range of industries. This includes technology, healthcare, and consumer sectors, which are less represented on the ASX.

For me, this is a straightforward way to add global diversification.

Vanguard FTSE Asia Ex-Japan Shares Index ETF (ASX: VAE)

The VAE ETF adds a different regional tilt.

It focuses on Asian markets, including China, Taiwan, India, and South Korea. These economies are at different stages of development, which creates a mix of growth opportunities.

What I like is how this ETF complements broader global exposure. It captures areas that are not always heavily weighted in global indices, particularly emerging markets and regional leaders in manufacturing and technology.

Over time, I think that diversification can be valuable.

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

Another ETF I would consider buying is the new V500 ETF. It provides direct exposure to the US market through the S&P 500.

This is one of the most widely followed indices in the world, and it includes many of the largest and most influential companies globally.

What I like here is the simplicity. You are gaining access to a broad mix of industries, from technology and healthcare to financials and consumer businesses, all within a single fund.

The recent pullback in US markets has also made entry points a bit more attractive than they were previously, in my view.

Vanguard Global Technology Index ETF (ASX: VTEK)

Lastly, the VTEK ETF offers a more focused exposure.

It tracks a global technology index, giving access to around 300 companies involved in areas like software, semiconductors, and digital infrastructure.

This is a higher-growth segment of the market, but also one that can be more volatile.

What I find appealing is the global nature of the fund. It is not just concentrated in one country, which reflects how innovation is happening across multiple regions.

For investors looking to tilt toward technology, I think it is an efficient way to do it.

Foolish takeaway

Vanguard ETFs are designed to be simple, diversified, and cost-effective. That does not mean every fund will suit every investor, but I think there is a clear role for each of these.

Whether it is broad Australian exposure, global diversification, regional growth, US market access, or a technology tilt, these ETFs offer different ways to build on an existing portfolio or start putting money to work.

The post 5 Vanguard ETFs for Aussies to buy this month appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• 3 top ASX ETFs to buy with $30,000 this month
• Which ASX ETFs I’d buy for retirement investing
• 5 ASX ETFs to buy and hold for five years
• How to invest $1,000 per month in ASX shares and build long-term wealth
• Why I’d buy these excellent Vanguard ETFs in April

Motley Fool contributor Grace Alvino has positions in CSL, Commonwealth Bank Of Australia, and Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Appen and CSL. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended BHP Group, CSL, Collins Foods, and Vanguard Msci Index International Shares ETF. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

Most Australians wait until around age 65 to retire. At this point you can access your superannuation, and you’re just two years away (if you’re eligible) from receiving your Age Pension payment.

But did you know that you can retire a few years earlier and still access your superannuation? When you reach the “preservation age” of 60 you can start living off your balance, provided you have retired.

The only issue is you need to have enough money to support the retirement lifestyle you want. 

Retirement lifestyles for Australians are generally split into two categories: modest and comfortable.

The Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia (ASFA), defines a modest retirement as being able to cover expenses slightly above the full Centrelink Age Pension. This includes basic health insurance, a cheaper model of car, and infrequent exercise. It also includes minimal utility expenses, limiting dining out, and maybe an annual domestic trip. It assumes you own your house outright.

Meanwhile, a comfortable retirement is one that allows you to maintain a good standard of living. This includes top-level private health insurance, ownership of a reasonable car brand, regular leisure activities, some funds for home repairs, occasional meals out, and perhaps an annual domestic trip. Again, it assumes you own your house outright.

How much superannuation do I need at age 60 to fund a comfortable retirement?

The benchmark for a comfortable retirement increased earlier this year off the back of higher inflation. 

The increase serves as a reminder that long-term returns from markets like the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) play an important role in building retirement savings.

In order to live a comfortable retirement lifestyle from age 60, individuals will need to spend around $54,840 a year, or for couples, this can be closer to $77,375 a year. 

To fund that, you’ll need a superannuation balance of around $630,000 for a single person, or $730,000 for a couple.

How much do I need for a modest retirement?

The cost of a modest retirement is a lot less. In order to live a modest retirement lifestyle at age 60, individual Australians can expect to need $35,503 per year, or for a couple this would be closer to $51,299 per year. 

To fund that, ASFA estimates you need a superannuation balance of around $110,000, or a couple would need $120,000 at age 60.

How do I know if my superannuation is on track to be able to retire at age 60?

According to ASFA, in order to be able to fund a comfortable retirement starting from age 67, your superannuation balance at age 40 should be $178,000. 

But if you want to retire much earlier, at age 60, then you’ll need to stay significantly ahead. At age 40 you should aim to have around $267,000 in your superannuation instead.

By age 50, Aussies who want to reach the superannuation balance needed for a comfortable retirement by age 60 should have around $439,500.

This would then put you on track to meet your final $630,000 balance on time.

The post Want to retire at age 60? This is how much you’ll need in your superannuation appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• The a2 Milk Company lowers FY26 guidance amid supply chain challenges
• 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Monday
• $1,000 buys 100 shares in an incredibly reliable ASX 200 dividend stock
• ASX 200 shares rip with financials leading a remarkable recovery last week
• Magellan Financial Group shares in focus following Barrenjoey merger approval

Motley Fool contributor Samantha Menzies has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

The ASX lithium share PLS Group Ltd (ASX: PLS) has been one of the best-performing Australian stocks in the last year, rising by 277%, at the chart below shows. In the past six months alone, it has gone up 106%.

It is highly leveraged to what happens with the lithium price because it’s a commodity business. When the resource price rises, it’s almost all extra profit for the company – aside from paying more to the government – because it’s more revenue for the same level of production (and costs).

With the lithium price significantly higher than where it was a year ago, it’s no wonder the PLS Group share price has soared. Where could it go next? Let’s take a look at some expert projections.

PLS Group share price target

A price target tells us where analysts think the share price will be in 12 months from the time they make that investment call.

According to CMC Invest, there are currently six buy ratings and six hold ratings on the business. However, the average price target is $5, implying a mid-single-digit decline in percentage terms.

The most optimistic price target is $5.72, suggesting a possible mid-single-digit rise, though the worst price target is $2.51, suggesting a possible drop of more than 50%.

In other words, investors are cautious about the valuation that the business has reached. However, it’s generally expected to hold onto its gains from the last year rather than suffer a big decline.

How has profitability changed?

The most recent result from the company was the FY26 half-year result, which was a perfect demonstration of how much better operating conditions are.

While the business reported a 6% increase in production to 432.8kt and the realised price for its lithium increased 40% to US$965 per tonne.

The big jump in the lithium price jumping by 47% to $624 million, underlying operating profit (EBITDA) jumped 241% to $253 million and the net profit after tax (NPAT) surged by 147% to $33 million.

Part of the reason why earnings increased so much was because its unit operating costs per tonne improved in the high single-digits.

What is the PLS Group share price valuation?

The projection on CMC Invest suggests that the business could generate earnings per share (EPS) of 13.5 cents in the 2026 financial year, which means the PLS Group share price is currently valued at 40x FY26’s estimated earnings.

It’s currently forecast to see EPS climb to 23.5 cents in FY27, which would be a year-over-year increase of around 75% if those predictions come true.

That means that the ASX lithium share is currently valued at 23x FY27’s estimated earnings.

The post Up 106% in six months, here are the latest growth forecasts for the PLS Group share price appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• PLS shares jump 320% in 12 months: Buy, sell or hold?
• 2 ASX 200 mining shares this fund manager is backing for long-term growth
• Should I buy PLS Group shares in April?
• ASX 200 mining shares rebound after March sell-off creates opportunities
• Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today

Motley Fool contributor Tristan Harrison has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

The S&P/ASX 300 Index (ASX: XKO) is an appealing place to look for opportunities because companies included in the index have reached a certain size (and stability) but may still have plenty of growth potential to come.

I’m going to look at the return potential of EVT Ltd (ASX: EVT), which is one of the businesses that is liked by the investment team at the listed investment company (LIC) WAM Research Ltd (ASX: WAX).

WAM Research looks to invest in the most compelling undervalued growth opportunities in the Australian market and EVT was one of the top 20 holdings of the WAM Research portfolio at the end of March 2026.

The fund manager describes EVT as an Australian entertainment and hospitality company with operations spanning hotels, cinemas and travel experiences. It has around 100 hotels with more than 15,000 rooms, with cinemas across Australia, New Zealand and Germany.

Let’s take a look at what could allow the business to provide capital growth of more than 20% in the next year.

What’s to like about the ASX 300 share?

WAM Research pointed out that the company delivered a positive investment return during March, building on positive momentum from its FY26 half-year result released in February.

The HY26 result showed revenue growth of 5.4%, while net profit grew by 21.6%. It said that this result was supported by record performance in the hotels division and solid contributions from Thredbo and EVT’s international operations.

In March, EVT completed a $750 million refinancing, extending debt maturities and improving covenant headroom.

WAM concluded its thoughts with the following:

This was broadly viewed by the market as enhancing financial flexibility to support future hotel expansion.

In terms of a trading update, the company is expecting the second half to show growth, subject to film performance and weather conditions.

The ASX 300 share’s hotels division is expected to deliver another operating profit (EBITDA) record year. New growth is expected from previous growth initiatives.

In the entertainment division, the second is expected to show growth, while Thredbo visitation was impacted by regional bushfires, while the winter 2026 (the month of June) is subject to weather conditions.

What could the return be?

No-one can know what the returns are going to do, but analysts are optimistic about what could be next with the business.

According to CMC Invest, there are currently three buy ratings on the business, with an average price target of $16.85 between them, which implies a possible rise of 24% within the next year.

The lowest price target of $16.40, which would be a rise of over 20%. The highest price target is $17.31, which suggests a possible rise of 27%.

The post Why this ASX 300 share could rise by 24% according to experts appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• 5 ASX shares I’d buy with $10,000 this week
• A major funding move is lifting this ASX stock today
• EVT completes $750 million refinancing, focuses on hotel growth

Motley Fool contributor Tristan Harrison has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

Choosing between two high-quality ASX shares is not always straightforward.

Both CSL Ltd (ASX: CSL) and Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO) have strong positions in their respective industries, and both have delivered solid returns for investors over time.

But right now, I think the comparison is becoming more interesting.

While Rio Tinto has been performing well, CSL’s recent weakness may be creating an opportunity to buy a fallen giant before it recovers.

CSL shares

CSL has had a tough period.

Its recent results disappointed the market, with earnings impacted by restructuring costs, impairments, and policy changes. That has weighed on sentiment and helped drive the share price lower over the past year.

But when I look beyond that, I still see a high-quality global healthcare business.

Demand for plasma therapies, vaccines, and specialty medicines is supported by long-term trends. This includes an ageing population and increasing healthcare needs.

Those drivers have not changed. What has changed is valuation.

After the pullback, CSL shares are now trading on multi-year low earnings multiples. For a business with its track record, that stands out to me.

The company is also actively working through a transformation program aimed at improving efficiency and supporting future growth.

For me, this combination of quality, long-term demand, and a lower starting valuation is what makes CSL shares compelling.

Rio Tinto shares

Rio Tinto has been a very different story.

The company has benefited from strong commodity prices, particularly in copper, which has supported earnings and shareholder returns. Iron ore prices have also been robust.

It is a highly cash-generative business, and that often flows through to dividends. There is also a longer-term story around copper, which is becoming increasingly important for electrification and global infrastructure.

So I can understand why Rio Tinto shares have been performing well.

But that strength can also work the other way. When a company is in favour and performing strongly, a lot of that optimism can already be reflected in the share price.

That does not mean Rio Tinto is not a good investment. It just means the upside from here may be more closely tied to commodity cycles and less to a re-rating.

Which is the better buy?

I think both CSL and Rio Tinto are quality businesses.

If I were looking for income and exposure to commodities, Rio Tinto would still make a strong case.

But if I am thinking about potential returns over the next five years, I would lean toward CSL shares.

The share price has been under pressure, expectations are lower, and the valuation looks more attractive than it has for some time.

If the company can improve execution, deliver on its transformation, and rebuild investor confidence, I think there is scope for a meaningful share price recovery.

Foolish takeaway

Both CSL and Rio Tinto have their place. Rio Tinto offers strong cash flow and exposure to global commodities, particularly when markets are supportive. CSL, on the other hand, looks like a business going through a difficult period but still backed by strong long-term fundamentals.

For me, that creates a more interesting risk-reward opportunity. It may require patience, but I think CSL has the potential to deliver stronger returns from here if things start to fall into place.

The post Better buy? CSL vs Rio Tinto shares appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• How to build a winning 10 ASX share portfolio from scratch in 2026
• These ASX blue chips now look too cheap to ignore
• Monadelphous wins $145m of new and renewed resources sector contracts
• CSL shares: 3 reasons to buy and 3 reasons to sell
• Buy, hold, sell: CSL, Magellan, and Woodside shares

Motley Fool contributor Grace Alvino has positions in CSL. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended CSL. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended CSL. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

It’s rare to see an ASX share with numerous buy ratings, but when we see that happen, it could signify there’s a clear opportunity there.

I’m going to highlight two businesses that are some of the most highly rated stocks on the ASX with multiple buys.

Of course, just because analysts like a company doesn’t automatically mean it’s going to produce strong returns. Let’s get into it.

Hub24 Ltd (ASX: HUB)

Hub24 offers clients the Hub24 platform, which offers advisers and their clients a large range of investment options, including managed portfolio solutions and enhanced transaction and reporting functionality for advisers and clients.

It also has wealth accounting software called Class, as well as being a provider of client portals for accountants and financial advisers called MyProsperity.

There are currently 13 ratings on the business, with 10 buy ratings. Of those 13 ratings, the average price target is $108.71, which tells us where analysts think the share price will be within a year. The price target suggests a possible rise of 23% from where it is at the time of writing.

The ASX share is growing at a very strong pace – in the FY26 half-year result, total revenue grew by 26% to $245.9 million, while underlying operating profit (EBITDA) grew 35% to $104.9 million and underlying net profit after tax (NPAT) rose 60% to $68.3 million.

Those numbers show strong scaling and revenue and even faster profit growth as margins improve.

The projection on CMC Markets suggests the business could generate $1.616 of earnings per share (EPS). That means it’s now trading at 54x FY26’s estimated earnings.

Sandfire Resources Ltd (ASX: SFR)

Sandfire is one of the largest copper miners on the ASX, with projects in Spain, Botswana, Australia and the US.

There have been 11 ratings on the business in the last three months, according to CMC Invest, with six of those being a buy. Of those ratings, the average price target is $18.92, which suggests a possible rise of 9% from where it is today.

But, the most optimistic price target is $21.24, which implies a possible rise of 22% within the next year, based on the share price at the time of writing.

The most recent update from the ASX share was its quarterly update for the three months to March 2026, which showed copper equivalent production of 34.5kt in the third quarter of FY26. For the nine months to 31 March 2026, copper production was 106.5kt.

It also had a cash balance of $76 million at 31 March 2026, with the $63 million increase from 31 December 2025 reflecting “strong underlying operating cash flow”. In the FY26 half-year result, revenue grew 17% and net profit jumped 88%, showing the operating leverage of miners when revenue increases as a result of a higher copper price.

The projection on CMC Invests suggests its EPS could grow to $1.01 in FY26 and $1.64 in FY27. That means it’s trading at 17x FY26’s estimated earnings and under 11x FY27’s estimated earnings.

With the long-term outlook for copper looking positive amid electrification, batteries and renewable energy, this ASX share could be one to watch.

The post 2 ASX shares highly recommended to buy: Experts appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• The ASX 200 shares I think smart investors are buying after the tech selloff
• Why is everyone talking about Sandfire, Bendigo Bank, and DroneShield shares on Thursday?
• Sandfire Resources posts Q3 FY26 operations highlights and maintains guidance
• Why surging ASX 200 copper stocks like Sandfire and BHP shares are ‘vulnerable’
• 5 ASX 200 shares I’d buy as the share market rebounds

Motley Fool contributor Tristan Harrison 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 Hub24. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Hub24. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

On Friday, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) finished the week with a small decline. The benchmark index fell 0.15% to 8,960.6 points.

Will the market be able to bounce back on Monday? Here are five things to watch:

ASX 200 expected to jump

The Australian share market looks set for a strong start to the week despite a mixed finish on Wall Street on Friday. According to the latest SPI futures, the ASX 200 is expected to open the day 70 points or 0.75% higher. In the United States, the Dow Jones was down 0.55%, the S&P 500 dropped 0.1%, and the Nasdaq rose 0.35%.

Oil prices ease

It could be a subdued start to the week for ASX 200 energy shares Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) and Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) after oil prices eased on Friday night. According to Bloomberg, the WTI crude oil price was down 1.23% to US$96.57 a barrel and the Brent crude oil price was down 0.75% to US$112.57 a barrel. This may have been driven by optimism over peace talks between the US and Iran.

Dividends being paid

A couple more ASX 200 shares will be rewarding their shareholders with dividend payments on Monday. This includes hearing solutions company Cochlear Ltd (ASX: COH) and auto listings giant CAR Group Limited (ASX: CAR). They will be paying partially franked dividends of $2.15 per share and 42.5 cents per share, respectively, later today.

Gold price slides

ASX 200 gold shares including Newmont Corporation (ASX: NEM) and Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) could have a soft start to the week after the gold price fell on Friday night. According to CNBC, the gold futures price was down 0.65% to US$4,787.4 an ounce. This may also have been driven by news of peace talks between the US and Iran.

Hold Orora shares

Morgans isn’t a buyer of Orora Ltd (ASX: ORA) shares despite their heavy decline last week. The broker has retained its hold rating with a heavily reduced price target of $1.55 (from $2.30). It prefers fellow packaging company Amcor (ASX: AMC) and has a buy rating and $76.00 price target on its shares. It said: “Given the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the conflict in the Middle East, visibility on the timing of a potential restart at the RAK facility remains limited. In addition, global consumer confidence and spirits demand have already been negatively affected by the conflict and may remain subdued for some time, even in the event of a near-term resolution. Given this uncertainty, we believe it is prudent to await further updates before reassessing our view. Within the Packaging sector, our preference remains Amcor (AMC, BUY, $76.00 TP).”

The post 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Monday appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• $1,000 buys 100 shares in an incredibly reliable ASX 200 dividend stock
• ASX 200 shares rip with financials leading a remarkable recovery last week
• Buy, hold, sell: Life360, Northern Star, and Sigma shares
• 2 ASX gold stocks to buy next week
• These ASX blue chips now look too cheap to ignore

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in Cochlear and Woodside Energy Group Ltd. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Cochlear. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended Amcor Plc. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended CAR Group Ltd, Cochlear, and Orora. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

The ASX small-cap share space is not one that many investors hunt for opportunities. It can be seen as riskier and more volatile. But, the medium-term returns could be market-beating, if we choose wisely.

The risks are certainly higher, the lower down the market capitalisation list you go. Brand power isn’t that strong and balance sheets haven’t developed to their full potential.

WAM Microcap Ltd (ASX: WMI) is one of the funds that’s focused on finding some of the most exciting opportunities at the small end of the market. The LIC recently highlighted two ASX small-cap shares in the portfolio that are exciting opportunities.

Duratec Ltd (ASX: DUR)

WAM described Duratec as a specialist infrastructure services company providing remediation, protection and energy services across civil, marine, mining and defence sectors.

The fund manager noted that Duratec’s share price increased in March, supported by continued positive momentum after the release of the FY26 half-year result.

Duratec reported solid earnings in line with expectations, reinforcing investor confidence in its growth outlook and driving upward revisions to earnings forecasts.

Momentum was further supported by the award of a $45 million contract in Papau New Guinea (PNG) which was announced towards the end of March 2026. This highlights the ongoing expansion of the business.

WAM said the rising Duratec share price performance during the month reflected investor confidence in Duratec’s earnings trajectory, project pipeline and execution capability, as well as the ASX small-cap share’s exposure to resilient customer markets such as the defence sector.

Autosports Group Ltd (ASX: ASG)

WAM described Autosports as a motor vehicle dealership operator and provider of automotive services, focusing on the luxury and prestige segment.

The Autosports share price declined in March, reflecting market weakness across interest rate-sensitive stocks maid ongoing interest rate uncertainty.

On top of that, as part of the free trade agreement between Australia and the EU, which was signed on 24 March 2026, the luxury car tax threshold was increased for electric vehicles only, despite wider expectations that it would be completely abolished for all vehicles.

WAM believes that the March pullback does not reflect a deterioration in the company’s strategic position.

The fund manager concluded its commentary on the ASX small-cap share by saying the team still view Autosports Group as well-placed to execute on strategic mergers and acquisitions in a highly fragmented industry.

The post 2 ASX small-cap shares to buy with big potential for returns appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• 2 ASX shares with dividend yields above 8%
• This ASX dividend stock has a 10% yield and I think it’s a buy
• This ASX contractor just landed a PNG deal. So why is the share price falling?
• 2 ASX dividend shares with yields above 7%
• Are these ASX shares hitting 52-week highs still worth buying?

Motley Fool contributor Tristan Harrison has positions in Wam Microcap. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

There are plenty of ASX shares to choose from right now, but a couple stand out to me.

These are not the only opportunities in the market, but they are two I could have on my shopping list next week.

BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP)

BHP is one of those businesses that I think could play an important role in a long-term portfolio.

What stands out to me is its exposure to future-facing commodities.

Copper, in particular, is becoming increasingly important. Electrification, renewable energy, and infrastructure investment all rely heavily on it. If those trends continue, I think demand for copper could remain strong for many years.

That matters because copper is now a major earnings driver for BHP, not just a side business.

On top of that, the company still benefits from its iron ore operations, which continue to generate significant cash flow. While iron ore prices can be volatile, this part of the business provides the financial strength that allows BHP to invest in future growth.

The Jansen potash project is another piece of that story. It adds exposure to global agriculture, which is supported by long-term trends like population growth and food demand. It is not something that will drive earnings overnight, but over time it could become a meaningful contributor.

I also think it is important not to overlook the income side. BHP’s dividends can help smooth returns during weaker periods, which is valuable when markets are uncertain.

For me, it is that combination of current cash flow, future-facing commodities, and income that makes BHP appealing.

DroneShield Ltd (ASX: DRO)

DroneShield sits at the other end of the spectrum. This is a higher-growth, higher-volatility business operating in an emerging industry, and it is likely to behave very differently to a company like BHP.

What I find compelling is the direction of travel. The use of drones is increasing rapidly, both in military and civilian settings. That creates a growing need for technologies that can detect, track, and respond to those threats.

DroneShield is positioned directly within that theme.

I think this is an area that is still developing. Governments and organisations are only just beginning to build out their counter-drone capabilities, which suggests the opportunity could expand over time.

Of course, it will not be a smooth journey. Revenue can be lumpy, contracts can take time to materialise, and sentiment can shift quickly. That is part of investing in an emerging growth company.

But for me, that is also where the upside can come from.

If the company continues to win contracts and scale its technology, I think there is potential for strong growth over the long term.

Foolish takeaway

BHP and DroneShield are very different businesses, and I think that is part of the appeal.

One offers scale, cash flow, and exposure to global commodities. The other provides access to a developing technology theme with significant growth potential.

For me, it is not about choosing one over the other. It is about recognising that both can play a role, depending on how you think about risk, time horizon, and long-term opportunity.

The post Why I’d buy BHP and DroneShield shares next week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• Why ASX dividend investing still works for building long-term wealth
• Buying BHP shares? Here’s how AI is boosting the mining giant’s revenue
• Monadelphous wins $145m of new and renewed resources sector contracts
• Buy, hold, or sell? South32, Capstone Copper, and BHP shares
• Why is everyone talking about Sandfire, Bendigo Bank, and DroneShield shares on Thursday?

Motley Fool contributor Grace Alvino has positions in DroneShield. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended DroneShield and is short shares of DroneShield. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended BHP Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

Investing in your 30s is all about time and opportunity. With decades ahead before retirement, investors are in a strong position to prioritise growth and let compounding do the heavy lifting. That often means leaning into higher-growth areas of the market and accepting some volatility along the way.

ASX exchange traded funds (ETFs) make this easy, offering access to powerful long-term trends through a single investment.

Here are three ASX ETFs that could be well suited for investors in their 30s.

Global X FANG+ ETF (ASX: FANG)

The first ASX ETF that could be a top pick is the Global X FANG+ ETF.

This fund takes a concentrated approach, investing in a small group of global technology and innovation leaders. Its holdings include companies like NVIDIA (NASDAQ: NVDA), Amazon (NASDAQ: AMZN), and Tesla (NASDAQ: TSLA).

Rather than spreading exposure broadly, this fund leans heavily into the businesses shaping the future of the global economy.

For investors in their 30s, this kind of exposure can be powerful. These companies are at the forefront of trends such as artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and digital transformation.

While the ETF can be volatile, its growth potential over the long term could be significant if these trends continue to play out. It was recently recommended by analysts at Bell Potter.

BetaShares Asia Technology Tigers ETF (ASX: ASIA)

Another ASX ETF that could be worth considering is the BetaShares Asia Technology Tigers ETF.

This fund provides exposure to leading technology companies across Asia, including names like Tencent (SEHK: 700), Alibaba (NYSE: BABA), and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (NYSE: TSM).

This is important because much of the world’s future growth is expected to come from Asia.

For investors in their 30s, adding exposure beyond Australia and the United States can help diversify growth opportunities. The region is home to rapidly expanding digital economies, rising middle classes, and increasing technology adoption.

While there are risks, including regulatory uncertainty, the long-term growth story remains compelling. 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 a strong option is the BetaShares S&P/ASX Australian Technology ETF.

This fund offers exposure to Australia’s leading technology companies, including Xero Ltd (ASX: XRO), WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC), and TechnologyOne Ltd (ASX: TNE).

While the Australian tech sector is smaller than its global peers, it has produced a number of high-quality, globally competitive businesses.

For investors in their 30s, the BetaShares S&P/ASX Australian Technology ETF provides a way to back local innovation and growth stories. It also adds a different dynamic to a portfolio that may already be heavily weighted toward international tech. It was also recommended by BetaShares recently.

The post 3 ASX ETFs for investors in their 30s appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

More reading

• 3 cheap ASX ETFs to buy before it’s too late
• 3 ASX ETFs to buy amid share market rally today: Experts
• 3 of the best ASX ETFs for beginner investors in 2026
• 5 ASX ETFs to buy in April and hold until 2036
• Bell Potter names 2 of the best ASX ETFs to buy now

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in Betashares Capital – Asia Technology Tigers Etf, Technology One, WiseTech Global, and Xero. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Amazon, Nvidia, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing, Technology One, Tencent, Tesla, WiseTech Global, and Xero. The Motley Fool Australia’s parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has recommended Alibaba Group. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended WiseTech Global and Xero. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Amazon, Nvidia, and Technology One. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.