How to turn $10,000 into $1 million with ASX ETFs

Here's how you could grow your wealth without ever having to pick an individual stock.

| More on:
A young well-dressed couple at a luxury resort celebrate successful life choices.

Image source: Getty Images

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

Turning $10,000 into $1 million might seem like an impossible dream, but with patience, discipline, and compounding, it can become a reality.

The Australian share market offers a range of high-quality exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that allow investors to build long-term wealth with diversified exposure to leading companies across Australia and the world.

By starting with $10,000 and consistently investing additional capital each month, investors can leverage the power of the market to grow their portfolios over time.

Taking advantage of compounding

Investing in ASX ETFs provides exposure to the stock market's long-term growth, which has historically averaged around 8% to 10% per annum. While past performance doesn't guarantee future results, this rate of return can significantly compound over time.

For example, if an investor starts with $10,000 and adds $500 per month while achieving an average annual return of 10%, they could reach $1 million in approximately 30 years. The key is consistency and letting your money work for you.

Which ASX ETFs can help you reach $1 million?

A well-diversified portfolio of high-quality ASX ETFs can provide exposure to strong companies, innovative industries, and resilient economic trends.

Here are three ASX-listed ETFs that could help investors reach the million-dollar milestone:

VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat ETF (ASX: MOAT)

This ASX ETF is inspired by Warren Buffett's investment philosophy. The VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat ETF invests in companies with durable competitive advantages and fair valuations. Given the Oracle of Omaha's track record over multiple decades, it is hard to argue against this investment style.

Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ)

Tech giants dominate this ASX ETF, which tracks the Nasdaq 100 index. Technology has driven substantial wealth creation over the past few decades and looks set to continue doing so in the future, making this a strong candidate for long-term portfolio growth.

iShares S&P 500 ETF (ASX: IVV)

Tracking the S&P 500, the iShares S&P 500 ETF provides exposure to the 500 largest US companies, including leaders in technology, healthcare, and consumer goods. Historically, the S&P 500 has delivered strong long-term returns.

Staying the course

The biggest challenge for investors is staying committed through market ups and downs. Market corrections and downturns like we are experiencing now are normal, but those who stick to their plan and continue investing during rough patches often see the best long-term results.

Foolish takeaway

Growing $10,000 into $1 million with ASX ETFs is possible with patience, discipline, and time. By regularly investing in high-quality ETFs, taking advantage of market dips, and allowing compounding to work its magic, investors can set themselves on the path to significant long-term wealth.

The key is to start now and stay the course.

Should you invest $1,000 in Coles Group Limited right now?

Before you buy Coles Group Limited shares, consider this:

Motley Fool investing expert Scott Phillips just revealed what he believes are the 5 best stocks for investors to buy right now... and Coles Group Limited wasn't one of them.

The online investing service he’s run for over a decade, Motley Fool Share Advisor, has provided thousands of paying members with stock picks that have doubled, tripled or even more.*

And right now, Scott thinks there are 5 stocks that may be better buys...

See The 5 Stocks *Returns as of 3 April 2025

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF and VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat ETF. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF and iShares S&P 500 ETF. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended VanEck Morningstar Wide Moat ETF 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.

More on ETFs

A man leans forward over his phone in his hands with a satisfied smirk on his face although he has just learned something pleasing or received some satisfying news.
ETFs

Meet these two new ASX ETFs

Two new ETFs are set to join the ASX.

Read more »

Happy young couple saving money in piggy bank.
ETFs

3 ASX ETFs to buy for lifelong income

These funds could provide passive income investors with regular paychecks.

Read more »

A woman sits at her desk thinking. She is surrounded by projections of world maps on various screens with data appearing below them.
ETFs

Here's 1 ASX ETF that I'd happily make my entire portfolio

This fund offers both diversification and growth.

Read more »

a business person checks his mobile phone outside a Wall Street office with an American flag and other business people in the background.
ETFs

How to choose a US focused ASX ETF for the current market environment

Here are 5 US focused ASX ETFs to consider.

Read more »

ETF in blue with person's hand in the direction of green and red bars on graph.
ETFs

Bargain hunting: Which ASX ETFs have fallen the most in 2025?

Looking for ETFs that could be undervalued after a rocky 2025? Here are three options to consider.

Read more »

Hand holding Australian dollar (AUD) bills, symbolising ex dividend day. Passive income.
ETFs

Where I'd invest $5,000 in ASX ETFs after the selloff

Let's see which funds could be top picks for an investment right now.

Read more »

A female ASX investor looks through a magnifying glass that enlarges her eye and holds her hand to her face with her mouth open as if looking at something of great interest or surprise.
ETFs

10 ASX ETFs to buy after the Easter break

There's something for everyone with these funds. Let's take a look at them.

Read more »

Woman and man calculating a dividend yield.
ETFs

Trade war heats up: Which ASX ETFs are most exposed to China?

These China-focused funds could be in the firing line.

Read more »