Global shares
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Diversification in a single trade
International ETFs enable you to buy a basket of assets or shares in a single trade.
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Simple to access
Gain exposure to international equities just like you would a normal share.
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Transparent
Portfolio holdings, value of the Fund’s assets and net asset value (NAV) per unit are available daily on our website.
What are global shares ETFs?
An ETF is an investment fund, similar to a traditional managed fund, but bought and sold on a stock exchange just like any share. ETFs aim to closely track the performance of an index or asset class, and provide the returns of that index or asset class – less any fees. Global shares ETFs enable you to invest in overseas markets and sectors by tracking a particular index. For example, a global shares ETF could track:
- A country-specific index
- A regional index
- A global index
- A global sector index
How to buy global shares ETFs
An international ETF can be bought and sold on the ASX in Australian dollars during ASX trading hours, just like any other share.
Read here for key trading considerations including the best hours to trade international ETFs and understanding the net asset value (NAV).
Are global shares ETFs a good investment?
The Australian sharemarket is heavily concentrated, with significant weightings in particular to the financial and resources sectors. As a result, many Australian investors hold portfolios that are not well-diversified.
There are a number of other sectors that have strong growth potential on a global scale, but which are under-represented on the ASX and so traditionally have been difficult for Australian investors to access directly. Sectors such as healthcare, technology and cybersecurity offer significant growth potential as the global population and life expectancy rises and as our lives increasingly turn online. However, few Australian companies operate in these sectors.
For Australian investors looking to gain exposure to these sectors, ETFs available on the ASX include NDQ, or HNDQ & HACK.
Does investing in a Betashares International ETF mean extra paperwork?
All Betashares Funds are Australian-domiciled, which means there is no additional paperwork or administration when you buy any of our international funds. You are not required to complete US W8-BEN forms or risk any estate tax implications, both of which are a possibility when investing in non-Australian domiciled (or “cross-listed”) ETFs.
Investing involves risk. The value of an investment and income distributions can go down as well as up. Funds that use gearing magnify both gains and losses and may not be suitable for all investors. Before making an investment decision you should consider the relevant product disclosure statement (available at www.betashares.com.au) and your particular circumstances, including your tolerance for risk, and obtain financial advice. An investment in any Fund should only be considered as a component of a broader portfolio.