Every International Shares ETF on the ASX: The Complete Guide
There are now 230 international equity ETFs listed on the ASX — more than any other single ETF category on the exchange. A decade ago, Australian investors had a handful of options for global exposure.
Introduction
Today, the choice is overwhelming: 50 actively managed global funds, 31 factor and smart beta strategies, a dozen thematic plays, and single-country funds covering everything from India to South Korea. This guide cuts through the noise by categorising and comparing every single one.
This article organises all 230 international equity ETFs into 27 categories, from the foundational (US S&P 500 trackers, broad global passive) to the speculative (thematic defence, AI, and clean energy plays) to the complex (geared and inverse funds). For each category, you'll find a comparison table covering management expense ratios, assets under management, and return data — everything you need to compare funds side by side without wading through product disclosure statements.
The data in this guide is sourced from the CBOE Australia Monthly Funds Report, February 2026. AUM figures reflect February 2026 month-end balances. Return figures are total returns in AUD. A "—" in the returns columns indicates the fund either lacks sufficient history or reported a zero/null return in the dataset — treat these with caution rather than as confirmed zeros.
ReviewETF.com.au lists all 467 ASX-listed ETFs without selling any products or receiving commissions. Every recommendation on this site is based solely on publicly available data. The purpose of this guide is not to tell you what to buy — it's to give you a complete, unbiased picture of what exists and how the options compare.
➡️US Shares — S&P 500 & Broad Market
These ETFs provide exposure to the US equity market, primarily through the S&P 500 index and broader market benchmarks covering large, mid, and small-cap US companies. This is the most liquid and widely-held segment of the international ETF universe on the ASX.
Ticker | Fund Name | Issuer | MER | AUM | 1Y Return | 5Y Return |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
iShares S&P 500 | iShares | 0.04% | $12.6B | 3.5% | 107.0% | |
Vanguard Us Total Market Shares Index | Vanguard | 0.03% | $6.1B | 3.6% | 95.0% | |
iShares S&P 500 Aud Hedged | iShares | 0.10% | $3.3B | 17.8% | 63.6% | |
Betashares S&P 500 Equal Weight | BetaShares | 0.29% | $1.0B | 1.1% | 71.4% | |
iShares S&P Small-Cap | iShares | 0.07% | $790M | 4.3% | 46.0% | |
iShares S&P Mid-Cap | iShares | 0.07% | $475M | 3.2% | 66.2% | |
State Street SPDR S&P 500 | State Street | 0.09% | $377M | 3.4% | 106.3% | |
Beta S&P 500 Equal Weight Currency Hedged | BetaShares | 0.32% | $256M | 14.8% | — | |
Global X S&P 500 High Yield Low Volatility | Global X | 0.35% | $77M | -5.8% | 62.6% | |
Global X Russell 2000 | Global X | 0.18% | $18M | 10.1% | — |
| V500 | Vanguard S&P 500 US Shares Index | Vanguard | 0.07% | New | — | — |
| V5AH | Vanguard S&P 500 US Shares Index (Hedged) | Vanguard | 0.09% | New | — | — |
V500 and V5AH launched 4 March 2026 — too new for AUM/return data in the February CBOE report.
Plus 3 more funds. See the full list on ReviewETF.com.au.
IVV dominates with $12.6B in AUM — the largest single international ETF on the ASX — and carries one of the lowest MERs at 0.04%. VTS is technically cheaper at 0.03% and covers the entire US market including small-caps, but uses a different structure (it's a Vanguard US domiciled fund). The hedged variant IHVV delivered 17.8% in 1Y returns versus IVV's 3.5%, reflecting the AUD's depreciation benefiting unhedged holders less.
➡️US Shares — Nasdaq & Tech
This category covers ETFs tracking US tech-heavy indices, primarily the Nasdaq-100 and its variants, along with concentrated tech and mega-cap strategies. These products carry higher volatility and concentration risk than broad market funds.
Ticker | Fund Name | Issuer | MER | AUM | 1Y Return | 5Y Return |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Betashares Nasdaq 100 | BetaShares | 0.48% | $7.2B | 6.0% | 107.9% | |
Global X FANG+ | Global X | 0.35% | $1.3B | 0.3% | 115.2% | |
Betashares Nasdaq 100 Currency Hedged | BetaShares | 0.51% | $711M | 20.3% | 77.3% | |
Global X Us 100 | Global X | 0.18% | $77M | 2.8% | — | |
Global X Fang+ (Currency Hedged) | Global X | 0.38% | $69M | 14.3% | — | |
ETFS Magnificent 7+ | ETFS | 0.29% | $19M | — | — | |
ETFS US Technology | ETFS | 0.29% | $19M | — | — | |
Betashares Nasdaq 100 Equal Weight | BetaShares | 0.48% | $18M | -1.1% | — | |
Betashares Nasdaq Next Gen 100 | BetaShares | 0.48% | $12M | 10.1% | — | |
Jpmorgan Us 100Q Eq Prem Inc (Hedged) | JPMorgan | 0.40% | $12M | 13.1% | — |
Plus 1 more fund. See the full list on ReviewETF.com.au.
NDQ is the undisputed leader with $7.2B in AUM, though at 0.48% MER it's among the pricier index options. U100 from Global X tracks the same index at 0.18% — less than half the cost of NDQ, yet has only attracted $77M so far. FANG, which concentrates in just 10 mega-cap tech stocks, has delivered extraordinary 3Y returns of 148% but comes with significant concentration risk.
➡️Global Shares — Broad Passive
These ETFs track developed market indices covering hundreds or thousands of companies across the US, Europe, Japan, and other developed markets. They form the core of most passive international portfolios.
Ticker | Fund Name | Issuer | MER | AUM | 1Y Return | 5Y Return |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares | Vanguard | 0.18% | $14.4B | 7.1% | 92.5% | |
Vanguard MSCI Indx International Shre (Hedged) | Vanguard | 0.21% | $6.4B | 19.9% | 71.0% | |
iShares Global 100 | iShares | 0.40% | $5.2B | 12.2% | 127.9% | |
Betashares Global Shares | BetaShares | 0.08% | $3.5B | 7.6% | — | |
Betashares Global Shares Currency Hedged | BetaShares | 0.11% | $2.1B | 20.6% | — | |
iShares Global 100 Aud Hedged | iShares | 0.43% | $663M | 26.0% | 88.4% | |
State Street SPDR S&P World Ex Aus Cbn Aware | State Street | 0.07% | $647M | 5.7% | 75.0% | |
State Str SPDR S&P Wld Ex Aus Cbn Aware (Hdg) | State Street | 0.10% | $369M | 17.4% | 51.3% | |
Morningstar International Shares | Morningstar | 0.39% | $359M | 17.8% | 44.6% | |
Betashares Managed Risk Global Shares | BetaShares | 0.54% | $47M | 4.7% | 72.6% |
VGS is Australia's most popular international ETF with $14.4B in AUM, tracking the MSCI World Index at 0.18%. However, BGBL offers effectively the same exposure at just 0.08% — less than half the cost — and has attracted $3.5B in under two years. WXOZ from State Street offers a carbon-aware variant at just 0.07%, making it the cheapest way to get broad developed-market exposure.
➡️Global ex-US / EAFE
These ETFs exclude the United States, providing exposure to international developed markets in Europe, Australasia, and the Far East (EAFE). They are typically used by investors who want to complement an existing US or domestic allocation.
Ticker | Fund Name | Issuer | MER | AUM | 1Y Return | 5Y Return |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Vanguard All-World Ex-Us Shares Index | Vanguard | 0.07% | $5.5B | 21.9% | 65.5% | |
iShares MSCI EAFE | iShares | 0.32% | $678M | 17.5% | 71.4% | |
Betashares Global Shares Ex Us | BetaShares | 0.14% | $48M | — | — |
VEU dominates this niche with $5.5B in AUM and a low MER of 0.07%, delivering strong 1Y returns of 21.9% as non-US markets outperformed in 2024–2025. IVE tracks the MSCI EAFE specifically but charges 0.32% — significantly more than VEU for similar exposure. This is a small category on the ASX, with EXUS only recently launched.
➡️Global Shares — Active / Managed
The largest and most diverse category on the ASX, active global funds employ portfolio managers to select stocks rather than tracking an index. They typically charge significantly higher fees and have a mixed performance record relative to passive alternatives.
Ticker | Fund Name | Issuer | MER | AUM | 1Y Return | 5Y Return |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Magellan Global Fund -Open Class Units -Active | Magellan | 1.35% | $5.4B | -5.5% | 52.7% | |
Dimensional Global Eq Trust Unhgd - | Dimensional | 0.36% | $5.0B | 9.7% | — | |
Dimensional Global Core Eq Aud Hgd - | Dimensional | 0.36% | $4.0B | 22.3% | — | |
Hyperion Global Growth Companies Fund - | Hyperion | 0.70% | $3.2B | -9.1% | 53.5% | |
Talaria Global Equity Fund | Talaria | 1.16% | $2.6B | 2.5% | — | |
Plato Global Alpha Fund | Plato | 0.88% | $1.1B | 25.1% | — | |
Nanuk New World Fund | Nanuk | 1.10% | $813M | 13.5% | — | |
Barrow Hanley Global Share | Barrow Hanley | 0.99% | $475M | 9.6% | — | |
L1 Capital International (Unhedged) | L1 Capital | 1.20% | $456M | -4.4% | — | |
Talaria Global Equity Fund Currency Hedged | Talaria | 1.20% | $452M | 8.5% | — |
Plus 40 more funds. See the full list on ReviewETF.com.au.
With 50 funds, this is the largest ETF category on the ASX — yet most have struggled to justify their fees. MGOC, despite $5.4B in AUM, returned -5.5% over 1Y while charging 1.35%. Bright spots include LNYN (+36.9% in 1Y) and DGCE/DFGH from Dimensional, which offer factor-tilted active management at a competitive 0.36%. MQEG from Macquarie is a notable outlier — an active global fund charging just 0.08%, the same as BGBL.
➡️Global Factor & Smart Beta
Factor and smart beta ETFs use rules-based screens to tilt portfolios toward characteristics historically associated with higher returns — quality, value, size, momentum, and low volatility. They sit between pure passive and active management in both cost and complexity.
Ticker | Fund Name | Issuer | MER | AUM | 1Y Return | 5Y Return |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
VanEck MSCI International Quality | VanEck | 0.40% | $8.1B | 3.7% | 100.2% | |
VanEck MSCI International Quality (Aud Hedged) | VanEck | 0.43% | $2.4B | 16.2% | 74.8% | |
VanEck MSCI Intl Small Companies Quality | VanEck | 0.59% | $1.6B | 5.2% | — | |
Vanguard Global Value Equity | Vanguard | 0.28% | $1.1B | 15.0% | 100.1% | |
Dimensional Global Value Trust - | Dimensional | 0.45% | $1.1B | 14.2% | — | |
VanEck Morningstar Wide MOAT | VanEck | 0.49% | $962M | 2.8% | 79.7% | |
Betashares Global Quality Leaders | BetaShares | 0.35% | $911M | 1.9% | 72.9% | |
Vanguard MSCI Intl Small Companies Indx | Vanguard | 0.32% | $809M | 15.1% | 50.5% | |
Dimensional Global Small Company - | Dimensional | 0.65% | $672M | 11.5% | — | |
VanEck MSCI International Value | VanEck | 0.40% | $416M | 26.3% | — |
Plus 21 more funds. See the full list on ReviewETF.com.au.
QUAL from VanEck is the dominant factor ETF with $8.1B in AUM, screening for high-quality global companies with strong return on equity and earnings stability. The value factor had a strong year — HVLU returned 39.8% and IVHG returned 46.6% over 1Y. QMIX from State Street offers a multi-factor approach at just 0.18%, making it one of the better-value options in this category.
➡️Global ESG & Ethical
ESG ETFs apply environmental, social, and governance screens to exclude certain companies or favour those with better sustainability profiles. The category ranges from light-touch exclusions to deep ethical filtering.
Ticker | Fund Name | Issuer | MER | AUM | 1Y Return | 5Y Return |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Betashares Global Sustainability Leaders | BetaShares | 0.59% | $3.6B | -4.0% | 63.2% | |
iShares Core MSCI World Ex Australia Esg | iShares | 0.09% | $1.5B | 7.6% | 88.1% | |
Vanguard Ethically Conscious Intl Shares Indx | Vanguard | 0.18% | $1.3B | 6.6% | 86.5% | |
iShares Core MSCI World Ex Aus Esg (Aud Hed) | iShares | 0.13% | $938M | 20.9% | 73.0% | |
Betashares Global Sustainability Leaders Ch | BetaShares | 0.62% | $685M | 8.1% | 47.6% | |
VanEck MSCI International Sustainable Equity | VanEck | 0.55% | $226M | -1.9% | 63.3% | |
Candriam Sustainable Gbl Equity Fund - | Candriam | 0.55% | $176M | — | — | |
Alphinity Global Sustainable Eq Fund - | Alphinity | 0.75% | $76M | -4.5% | — | |
Russell Sust Global Opportunities | Russell | 0.95% | $24M | 4.8% | — | |
Janus Henderson Global Sustainable Eq | Janus Henderson | 0.80% | $2M | 3.5% | — |
ETHI from BetaShares leads the category with $3.6B in AUM but returned -4.0% over 1Y — underperforming broad market peers. IWLD from iShares offers a much lighter-touch ESG screen at just 0.09% MER and has broadly matched unscreened peers over 5 years. Investors should scrutinise what each ESG label actually means — the methodology differences between funds are significant.
➡️Global Sector
Sector ETFs concentrate exposure in a specific industry globally, such as healthcare, technology, or banking. They offer targeted bets on specific parts of the global economy and carry higher concentration risk than broad market funds.
Ticker | Fund Name | Issuer | MER | AUM | 1Y Return | 5Y Return |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
iShares Global Healthcare | iShares | 0.41% | $1.4B | -3.8% | 54.0% | |
Global X Morningstar Global Technology | Global X | 0.45% | $273M | -15.5% | 23.6% | |
Betashares Global Healthcare Currency Hedged | BetaShares | 0.57% | $177M | 5.9% | 39.6% | |
Betashares Global Banks Currency Hedged | BetaShares | 0.57% | $161M | 39.5% | 121.5% | |
iShares Global Consumer Staples | iShares | 0.41% | $142M | 1.3% | 57.1% | |
VanEck Global Healthcare Leaders | VanEck | 0.45% | $52M | 0.3% | 22.1% | |
Global X S&P Biotech | Global X | 0.45% | $40M | 27.1% | -5.7% |
IXJ is the largest with $1.4B in AUM tracking global healthcare, though it returned -3.8% over 1Y amid sector headwinds. TECH from Global X has been a notable laggard, returning -15.5% over 1Y despite the tech sector's broader strength — a reminder that fund construction matters within a theme. The 7-fund category is small, reflecting ASX investors' preference for thematic ETFs over traditional sector allocations.
➡️Global Infrastructure & Property
These ETFs provide exposure to listed infrastructure companies — toll roads, airports, utilities, and pipelines — as well as global real estate investment trusts (REITs). They are often sought for their income characteristics and inflation-linkage.
Ticker | Fund Name | Issuer | MER | AUM | 1Y Return | 5Y Return |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Resolution Cap Global Prop Sec Fund - | Resolution | 0.80% | $2.2B | 14.4% | 23.4% | |
Clearbridge Real Income Fund - | Clearbridge | 0.85% | $489M | 9.3% | — | |
Ausbil Gbl Essential Infra Fund (Hdg) - | Ausbil | 1.00% | $291M | — | — | |
Resolution Gbl Listed Infra Fund - | Resolution | 0.70% | $25M | — | — |
RCAP from Resolution Capital is the standout with $2.2B in AUM, actively managing a portfolio of global listed property securities and returning 14.4% over 1Y. R3AL from ClearBridge takes a real income approach across property, infrastructure, and utilities at $489M in AUM. The category is entirely dominated by active funds, with no passive global infrastructure index ETF currently listed on the ASX.
➡️Global Dividend & Income
Dividend-focused ETFs screen for companies with high or growing dividend yields globally. They appeal to income-seeking investors, though yield-chasing can come with its own risks including value traps.
Ticker | Fund Name | Issuer | MER | AUM | 1Y Return | 5Y Return |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
State Street SPDR S&P Global Dividend | State Street | 0.35% | $363M | 18.1% | 66.0% | |
Betashares S&P Global High Dividend Aristocrat | BetaShares | 0.45% | $85M | 4.7% | 83.3% |
Only two ETFs occupy this category on the ASX — WDIV from State Street and VHYG from Vanguard. WDIV focuses on global dividend aristocrats with consistent payment histories. The category's small size likely reflects that ASX investors seeking yield tend to favour domestic equities or covered call strategies over pure dividend ETFs.
➡️Covered Call / Yield Maximiser
Covered call ETFs hold an underlying portfolio of equities or indices while selling call options to generate additional income. This strategy enhances yield but caps upside participation when markets rally strongly.
Ticker | Fund Name | Issuer | MER | AUM | 1Y Return | 5Y Return |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Betashares S&P 500 Yield Maximiser | BetaShares | 0.79% | $281M | -2.2% | 72.6% | |
Jpmorgan Equity Premium Income | JPMorgan | 0.40% | $173M | -5.5% | — | |
Jpmorgan Us 100Q Equity Premium Income | JPMorgan | 0.40% | $80M | 0.2% | — | |
Betashares Nasdaq 100 Yield Maximiser | BetaShares | 0.68% | $31M | -0.6% | — | |
Global X Nasdaq 100 Covered Call | Global X | 0.60% | $21M | -4.5% | — | |
Jpm Global Equity Premium Income | Jpm | 0.40% | $20M | -4.8% | — | |
Global X S&P 500 Covered Call | Global X | 0.60% | $12M | -5.3% | — | |
Jpmorgan Equity Premium Income (Hedged) | JPMorgan | 0.40% | $10M | 5.7% | — | |
Jpm Gbl Equity Premium Income Hedged | Jpm | 0.40% | $9M | 7.7% | — |
UMAX from BetaShares leads with $281M in AUM, writing covered calls on the S&P 500 to generate enhanced income, though it returned -2.2% over 1Y as options income failed to offset equity market headwinds. JEPI from JPMorgan — a popular product globally — returned -5.5% over 1Y on the ASX. The covered call trade-off is structural: these funds sacrifice upside participation in rising markets in exchange for higher current income — a trade-off that has cost performance over the past decade of bull market conditions.
➡️Thematic — Defence
Defence ETFs provide exposure to companies involved in aerospace, defence contracting, and national security. The category has surged in interest following increased global defence spending commitments from NATO members and other nations.
Ticker | Fund Name | Issuer | MER | AUM | 1Y Return | 5Y Return |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
VanEck Global Defence | VanEck | 0.65% | $300M | 54.0% | — | |
Betashares Global Defence | BetaShares | 0.55% | $243M | 47.7% | — | |
Global X Defence Tech | Global X | 0.50% | $133M | 57.1% | — |
DFND from VanEck leads with $300M in AUM and delivered 54.0% in 1Y returns, while ARMR from BetaShares returned 47.7% and DTEC returned 57.1%. This is one of the strongest-performing thematic categories on the ASX over the past year, driven by increased global defence spending commitments following geopolitical instability. All three funds are recent listings with no 5Y track record — the strong short-term performance should be considered in that context.
➡️Thematic — AI, Robotics & Semiconductors
These ETFs target companies developing or enabling artificial intelligence, automation, robotics, and the semiconductor supply chain. They represent one of the most watched thematic categories given the AI boom.
Ticker | Fund Name | Issuer | MER | AUM | 1Y Return | 5Y Return |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Global X Semiconductor | Global X | 0.45% | $561M | 67.9% | — | |
Betashares Global Robotics & Artificial Intell | BetaShares | 0.57% | $323M | 7.7% | 29.2% | |
Global X ROBO Global Robotics & Automation | Global X | 0.69% | $282M | 22.5% | 29.0% | |
Global X Artificial Intelligence | Global X | 0.57% | $197M | 13.4% | — | |
Global X Ai Infrastructure | Global X | 0.57% | $80M | — | — |
SEMI from BetaShares led this category with a remarkable 67.9% 1Y return, reflecting the semiconductor supercycle driven by AI demand. ROBO from Global X returned 22.5% over 1Y — solid but well behind semiconductors — while RBTZ from BetaShares returned 7.7%, reflecting different index compositions within the same broad theme. The divergence between SEMI (+67.9%) and RBTZ (+7.7%) underscores how different fund constructions can lead to dramatically different outcomes even within the same thematic narrative.
➡️Thematic — Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity ETFs invest in companies providing digital security products and services, including network security, identity management, and cloud security. The sector benefits from structural tailwinds as cyber threats escalate globally.
Ticker | Fund Name | Issuer | MER | AUM | 1Y Return | 5Y Return |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Betashares Global Cybersecurity | BetaShares | 0.67% | $1.1B | -15.6% | 60.6% | |
Global X Cybersecurity | Global X | 0.47% | $10M | -33.3% | — |
HACK from BetaShares leads with strong AUM and a 5Y return of 60.6%, though its 1Y return was -15.6% — a rough period as cyber valuations corrected from post-pandemic highs. BUGG from Global X is the only other option, returning -33.3% over 1Y. With only two products in this category, investors have limited choice — and both had negative 1Y returns despite the sector's long-term structural tailwinds.
➡️Thematic — Clean Energy & Climate
Clean energy ETFs invest in renewable energy, electric vehicles, battery technology, and climate solutions companies. The category has experienced significant volatility as interest rates rose and policy support came under scrutiny.
Ticker | Fund Name | Issuer | MER | AUM | 1Y Return | 5Y Return |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Munro Climate Change Leaders Fund | Munro | 0.90% | $179M | 33.8% | — | |
Betashares Climate Change Innovation | BetaShares | 0.65% | $81M | 13.0% | — | |
VanEck Global Clean Energy | VanEck | 0.65% | $77M | 56.2% | — | |
Global X Hydrogen | Global X | 0.69% | $46M | 99.0% | — | |
Betashares Electric Vehicles and Ftr Mobility | BetaShares | 0.67% | $14M | 17.5% | — | |
Jpmorgan Climate Change Solutions | JPMorgan | 0.55% | $3M | 22.4% | — |
Performance has been highly dispersed — CLNE returned +56.2% over 1Y while ERTH from BetaShares returned +13.0% and MCCL (the largest fund at $179M) returned +33.8%. Note: the CLDD -30.1% figure referenced in the key takeaways reflects a prior period — the cloud computing space had a difficult prior year. The clean energy category illustrates how fund construction determines outcomes even within a single thematic narrative.
➡️Thematic — Other
This category captures thematic ETFs that don't fit neatly into other groups, covering areas such as healthcare innovation, genomics, consumer technology, and other emerging trends.
Ticker | Fund Name | Issuer | MER | AUM | 1Y Return | 5Y Return |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Loftus Peak Global Disruption | Loftus | 1.20% | $691M | 4.3% | 93.4% | |
Loftus Peak Global Disruption Hedged | Loftus | 1.20% | $94M | — | — | |
VanEck Video Gaming and Esports | VanEck | 0.55% | $84M | -5.4% | 56.9% | |
Betashares Glb Agriculture Comp Currency Hdgd | BetaShares | 0.57% | $75M | 36.3% | 39.4% | |
VanEck Global Listed Private Equity | VanEck | 0.65% | $54M | -22.7% | — | |
Betashares Cloud Computing | BetaShares | 0.67% | $31M | -30.1% | -22.2% | |
Betashares Video Games and Esports | BetaShares | 0.57% | $29M | -4.6% | — | |
Global X Fintech & Blockchain | Global X | 0.69% | $5M | -13.3% | — |
The most eclectic category — LPGD (global disruption), ESPO (video gaming/esports), GPEQ (listed private equity), FOOD (global agriculture), FTEC (fintech/blockchain), and CLDD (cloud computing) all sit here. CLDD returned -30.1% in the prior year — a cautionary tale for thematic investors. The wide range of themes reflects product proliferation; scrutinise the index methodology before buying any of these.
➡️Commodity Producers & Resources
These ETFs provide equity exposure to companies that produce commodities — gold miners, energy producers, diversified miners, and agricultural companies. They offer indirect commodity exposure through equity risk.
Ticker | Fund Name | Issuer | MER | AUM | 1Y Return | 5Y Return |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
VanEck Gold Miners | VanEck | 0.53% | $1.9B | 155.6% | 299.0% | |
Global X Copper Miners | Global X | 0.65% | $814M | 121.4% | — | |
Global X Battery Tech & Lithium | Global X | 0.69% | $743M | 76.1% | 98.5% | |
Betashares Global Uranium | BetaShares | 0.69% | $348M | 94.1% | — | |
Betashares Global Gold Miners Currency Hedged | BetaShares | 0.57% | $342M | 188.5% | 240.0% | |
Betashares Global Energy Comp Currency Hedged | BetaShares | 0.57% | $246M | 26.9% | 108.5% | |
Global X Uranium | Global X | 0.69% | $153M | 101.4% | — | |
Betashares Energy Transition Metals | BetaShares | 0.69% | $137M | 136.3% | — | |
Betashares Global Royalties | BetaShares | 0.69% | $72M | 26.0% | — | |
Global X Silver Miners.. | Global X | 0.65% | $40M | — | — |
Plus 2 more funds. See the full list on ReviewETF.com.au.
GDX from VanEck dominates with $1.9B in AUM and an extraordinary 155.6% 1Y return as gold prices surged. WIRE (copper/electrification metals) returned 121.4% over 1Y, and ACDC (battery/energy storage materials) returned 76.1%. This category has been a standout performer over the past year, driven by gold's rally and strong industrial metals demand. Note that commodity producer ETFs carry both commodity price risk and equity market risk — amplifying moves in both directions.
➡️Asia (Broad & Tech)
Asia-focused ETFs invest across the broader Asian region — including Japan, China, South Korea, India, and Southeast Asia — or target Asia's technology sector specifically. These funds are used for regional diversification beyond developed markets.
Ticker | Fund Name | Issuer | MER | AUM | 1Y Return | 5Y Return |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
iShares Asia 50 | iShares | 0.29% | $1.4B | 45.9% | 48.1% | |
Betashares ASIA Technology Tigers | BetaShares | 0.67% | $1.1B | 50.9% | 40.9% | |
Platinum Asia Fund | Platinum | 1.10% | $324M | 30.2% | 28.2% | |
Ellerston Asia Growth Fund | Ellerston | 0.75% | $38M | 21.5% | — | |
Fidelity Asia | Fidelity | 1.16% | $26M | 16.8% | — | |
Abrdn Sust Asian Opportunities | Abrdn | 1.18% | $2M | 24.3% | — |
IAA from iShares leads with $1.4B in AUM and returned 45.9% over 1Y, tracking the S&P Asia 50 index of the region's 50 largest companies. ASIA from BetaShares focuses on Asia's technology giants and returned 50.9% over 1Y — one of the best-performing ETFs in any category over the period. The strong recent performance across Asia reflects a rotation away from expensive US markets and a recovery in Chinese technology stocks.
➡️China
China-specific ETFs provide direct exposure to Chinese equities, including both onshore A-shares and offshore H-shares and ADRs. This is a high-risk, high-volatility category given China's regulatory environment and geopolitical risks.
Ticker | Fund Name | Issuer | MER | AUM | 1Y Return | 5Y Return |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
iShares MSCI Emerging Markets Ex China | iShares | 0.25% | $495M | 44.4% | — | |
iShares China Large-Cap | iShares | 0.60% | $435M | -5.3% | -8.9% | |
VanEck China New Economy | VanEck | 0.95% | $86M | 13.2% | 0.9% | |
Global X China Tech | Global X | 0.45% | $67M | — | — | |
VanEck Ftse China A50 | VanEck | 0.60% | $37M | 4.1% | -9.4% |
EMXC from iShares is the largest fund here at $495M in AUM — notably, it tracks emerging markets ex-China, which has surged 44.4% over 1Y as markets ex-China outperformed. IZZ from iShares tracks China Large-Cap specifically and returned -5.3% over 1Y, reflecting the volatility of direct China equity exposure. CNEW from VanEck focuses on China's new economy and returned 13.2%. The divergence between ex-China EM (+44.4%) and direct China exposure (-5.3%) highlights the significant index-construction decisions investors face in this space.
➡️India
India ETFs offer exposure to one of the world's fastest-growing major economies, capturing the long-term structural growth story of India's expanding middle class, digital economy, and manufacturing sector.
Ticker | Fund Name | Issuer | MER | AUM | 1Y Return | 5Y Return |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Betashares India Quality. | BetaShares | 0.80% | $194M | -4.8% | 30.2% | |
Global X India Nifty 50 | Global X | 0.69% | $193M | -6.7% | 41.6% | |
VanEck India Growth Leaders | VanEck | 0.75% | $15M | — | — | |
India Avenue Equity Fund | India | 1.10% | $11M | — | — | |
Fidelity India | Fidelity | 1.20% | $7M | -6.0% | — |
IIND from iShares leads with $194M in AUM, though it returned -4.8% over 1Y as Indian markets corrected after years of strong performance. NDIA from Global X returned -6.7% over 1Y but has delivered 41.6% over 5Y, illustrating the long-term growth story. India remains a popular structural growth allocation, though valuations have moved significantly higher and short-term volatility should be expected.
➡️Japan
Japan ETFs have attracted significant attention following structural corporate governance reforms, a weak yen, and the return of inflation after decades of deflation. The category spans both hedged and unhedged approaches. Note: VAE (Vanguard FTSE Asia ex-Japan) appears in this category as categorised in the source data — it provides broader Asia ex-Japan exposure rather than pure Japan.
Ticker | Fund Name | Issuer | MER | AUM | 1Y Return | 5Y Return |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
iShares MSCI Japan | iShares | 0.50% | $1.3B | 23.6% | 62.8% | |
Vanguard Ftse Asia Ex Japan Shares Index | Vanguard | 0.40% | $796M | 28.1% | 37.3% | |
Betashares Japan Currency Hedged | BetaShares | 0.56% | $257M | 54.8% | 123.6% | |
Global X Japan Topix 100 | Global X | 0.40% | $9M | — | — |
IJP from iShares leads with $1.3B in AUM, returning 23.6% over 1Y. HJPN from BetaShares, which hedges AUD/JPY currency risk, delivered a remarkable 54.8% over 1Y — compared to IJP's 23.6% unhedged — illustrating the enormous impact of currency hedging decisions when investing in Japan. Japan's corporate governance reforms and the return of inflation have been key re-rating catalysts.
➡️Korea
Korea ETFs provide exposure to South Korea's export-driven economy, dominated by global technology and industrial leaders including Samsung, SK Hynix, and Hyundai.
Ticker | Fund Name | Issuer | MER | AUM | 1Y Return | 5Y Return |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
iShares MSCI South Korea | iShares | 0.45% | $143M | 148.2% | 103.1% |
IKO from iShares is the sole Korea-specific ETF on the ASX, with $143M in AUM and a remarkable 1Y return of 148.2%, reflecting the extraordinary rally in Korean semiconductor and technology stocks (particularly SK Hynix). South Korea is often underweighted by ASX investors despite being home to globally dominant companies in semiconductors, electronics, and automotive sectors. The single-product offering limits investors' choice in this space.
➡️Europe
European ETFs provide exposure to listed companies across the Eurozone and broader European markets. The category has benefited from renewed optimism around European fiscal spending, defence investment, and a lower-valued euro.
Ticker | Fund Name | Issuer | MER | AUM | 1Y Return | 5Y Return |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
iShares Europe | iShares | 0.58% | $934M | 15.1% | 81.7% | |
Vanguard Ftse Europe Shares | Vanguard | 0.35% | $570M | 15.7% | 75.9% | |
Global X Euro Stoxx 50 | Global X | 0.35% | $462M | 15.2% | 90.3% | |
Betashares Europe Currency Hedged | BetaShares | 0.56% | $107M | 16.9% | 66.4% |
IEU from iShares is the dominant Europe ETF with $934M in AUM, returning 15.1% over 1Y and 81.7% over 5Y. VEQ from Vanguard ($570M) and ESTX from Global X ($462M) offer similar broad European exposure. European equities have benefited from increased defence spending, ECB rate cuts, and a rotation away from expensive US markets — the category has seen strong inflows as a result.
➡️UK Shares
UK-focused ETFs invest in London Stock Exchange-listed companies, offering exposure to a value-tilted market heavily weighted toward financials, energy, and consumer staples.
Ticker | Fund Name | Issuer | MER | AUM | 1Y Return | 5Y Return |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Betashares Ftse 100 | BetaShares | 0.45% | $442M | 19.9% | 94.3% | |
Betashares Ftse 100 Currency Hedged | BetaShares | 0.48% | $24M | 25.7% | — |
F100 from BetaShares leads with $442M in AUM, returning 19.9% over 1Y as UK equities rallied — helped by sterling strength and a value re-rating of the FTSE 100's resource and financial-heavy composition. The hedged variant H100 returned 25.7% over the same period, with the additional return from hedging out AUD/GBP movements. Both UK options on the ASX are BetaShares products, leaving investors with limited issuer diversity in this space.
➡️Emerging Markets
Emerging market ETFs invest across developing economies including China, India, Brazil, Taiwan, and South Korea. The category offers exposure to higher-growth economies at typically lower valuations than developed markets.
Ticker | Fund Name | Issuer | MER | AUM | 1Y Return | 5Y Return |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Vanguard Ftse Emerging Markets Shares | Vanguard | 0.48% | $1.8B | 15.9% | 31.9% | |
iShares MSCI Emerging Markets | iShares | 0.69% | $1.6B | 30.0% | 38.2% | |
VanEck MSCI Multifactor Em Markets Equity | VanEck | 0.69% | $594M | 36.8% | 87.8% | |
Fidelity Global Emerging Markets | Fidelity | 0.99% | $182M | 27.0% | 23.7% | |
Betashares MSCI Emerging Markets | BetaShares | 0.35% | $41M | — | — | |
State Street SPDR S&P Em Markets Carbon Aware | State Street | 0.35% | $32M | 17.2% | 33.8% | |
Jpmorgan Em Research Enhanced Idx Eqty | JPMorgan | 0.35% | $12M | — | — | |
Avantis Emerging Markets Equity | Avantis | 0.45% | $9M | — | — |
VGE from Vanguard leads with $1.8B in AUM, returning 15.9% over 1Y. IEM from iShares ($1.6B) returned 30.0% over 1Y, while EMKT from VanEck — which adds a multifactor tilt — delivered 36.8% over 1Y and 87.8% over 5Y, comfortably outperforming plain-vanilla EM trackers. Emerging markets broadly outperformed expectations in the past year, driven by strong returns across Asia, Latin America, and commodity-exporting nations.
➡️Geared / Inverse / Complex
Geared ETFs use leverage to amplify returns (and losses), while inverse ETFs aim to profit from market declines. These are complex products designed for sophisticated short-term traders, not long-term investors.
Ticker | Fund Name | Issuer | MER | AUM | 1Y Return | 5Y Return |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Betashares Geared Us Eqty Ccy Hedged | BetaShares | 0.80% | $354M | 20.7% | 107.5% | |
Betashares Wealthbuilder All Gr Geared | BetaShares | 0.35% | $250M | 19.0% | — | |
Betashares Us Eqy Strong Bear Ccy H | BetaShares | 1.38% | $153M | -37.7% | -73.1% | |
Global X Ultra Short Nasdaq 100 | Global X | 1.00% | $86M | -34.8% | -86.5% | |
Global X Ultra Long Nasdaq 100 | Global X | 1.00% | $63M | 34.1% | 72.1% | |
Betashares Wealthbuilder Nasdaq Geared | BetaShares | 0.50% | $59M | 5.8% | — |
GGUS (2x geared US equity) returned 20.7% over 1Y and 107.5% over 5Y, while LNAS (3x long Nasdaq 100) delivered 34.1% over 1Y. On the other side, BBUS (bear/short US shares) returned -37.7% over 1Y as US markets rose, and SNAS (3x short Nasdaq 100) returned -34.8%. These products are explicitly designed for short-term tactical use — the daily rebalancing mechanism causes return decay that makes them unsuitable as long-term holdings.
➡️Crypto
Cryptocurrency ETFs provide regulated, exchange-traded access to digital assets such as Bitcoin and Ethereum without requiring self-custody. The ASX-listed crypto ETF universe remains small relative to the US market.
Ticker | Fund Name | Issuer | MER | AUM | 1Y Return | 5Y Return |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Betashares Crypto Innovators | BetaShares | 0.67% | $168M | 11.9% | — |
CRYP from BetaShares is the primary crypto ETF on the ASX, providing exposure to a basket of crypto-related equities rather than holding crypto directly. The limited crypto ETF offering on the ASX contrasts with the US market where spot Bitcoin ETFs launched in early 2024 and attracted enormous inflows. Investors seeking direct crypto exposure may find the ASX options limited.
Key Takeaways
The cheapest way to get global exposure is BGBL at 0.08% MER — or WXOZ at 0.07% for a carbon-aware version. Both undercut VGS's 0.18%, which remains the most popular despite not being the cheapest.
IVV vs V500: IVV wins on fees. IVV charges 0.04% versus VTS's 0.03% for total US market — while Vanguard's V500 (launched March 2026) targets the same index at 0.07%. For pure S&P 500 exposure, IVV at 0.04% remains the benchmark for cheapest and most liquid.
Active funds mostly underperform after fees. Of the 50 actively managed global ETFs, the majority have 1Y returns below their passive equivalents. Notable exceptions include LNYN (+36.9%), T8EV (+42.4%), and PGA1 (+25.1%) — though short track records make these hard to evaluate with confidence.
Thematic ETFs have had extreme performance divergence. SEMI (semiconductors) returned +67.9% and defence ETFs ARMR/DFND returned ~57% over 1Y. At the other end, CLDD (clean energy cloud) returned -30.1%. Thematic ETFs are high-conviction, high-risk products — they are not diversified core holdings.
Emerging markets outperformed expectations. VGE returned 27.2% over 1Y, VEU (ex-US) returned 21.9%, and several Asia-focused funds delivered 20–30%+ returns. After years of underperformance, the rotation away from expensive US equities has benefited investors with diversified international exposure.
The fee range is enormous — from 0.03% to 1.89%. VTS at 0.03% and BGBL at 0.08% represent the efficient end. ISLM at 1.89% represents the most expensive international ETF on the ASX. Over 20 years, a 1.86% annual fee drag on a $100,000 investment compounds to a very significant difference in terminal wealth — fee awareness matters.
Sources
CBOE Australia Monthly Funds Report, February 2026
Fund issuer product disclosure statements and websites
ReviewETF.com.au — full ETF database with up-to-date AUM, MER, and return data for all 467 ASX-listed ETFs
This article is general information only and does not constitute financial advice. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. Always read the Product Disclosure Statement before investing. ReviewETF.com.au does not receive commissions or payments from any ETF issuer.
