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

Here are 5 US focused ASX ETFs to consider.

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ASX investors aiming to capitalise on market volatility may wish to invest in the United States. One way this can be achieved is through ASX ETFs.

The past few months have proven especially volatile for US equity markets. 

In February, Chinese start-up company, Deepseek, arrived on the scene, wreaking havoc in the technology sector. Chipmaker Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA) saw its share price decline nearly 20% in one day. 

Markets took another dramatic turn as US President Donald Trump announced his reciprocal tariffs on 'Liberation Day'. Since then, there has been significant volatility. The Trump administration has reportedly entered discussions with several nations, including Japan, the European Union and China, to reach trade deals. 

While these developments have boosted market sentiment, major US indices are still materially lower than they were at the start of the year. For the year to date, the S&P 500 is down 10%, while the Nasdaq Composite Index has fallen nearly 16%. 

Retail investors have been buying in the dip at record numbers. Among the most popular trades are US technology shares and global exchange-traded funds (ETFS), according to the Australian Financial Review.

Those looking for US-focused ASX ETFS are spoilt for choice, with several options available. ASX investors can tailor their selection depending on their outlook and preferred level of diversification. 

Here are five to consider.

Vanguard US Total Market Shares Index AUD ETF (ASX: VTS)

Vanguard US Total Market Shares Index AUD ETF is one of the most popular ETFs on the ASX. It is extremely diversified across the entire US market, with 3,598 holdings. That means it includes the likes of Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA) and Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT), as well as a range of microcap companies. It is especially low cost, with a management fee of 0.03%. Investors wanting to bet on the strength of the overall US economy may prefer this ETF.

 iShares S&P 500 AUD ETF (ASX: IVV)

Alternatively, those looking to invest in the largest and most well-known companies only may wish to invest in iShares S&P 500 AUD ETF. This ETF tracks the S&P 500 Index, which contains the 500 largest listed companies in America. With a management fee of 0.03%, it is also very low-cost.

Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ)

ASX investors bullish on the US technology sector may be more interested in the BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF. For a management expense of 0.48%, this ETF tracks the technology-heavy Nasdaq Composite, which comprises 100 of the largest non-financial companies.

Global X Fang+ ETF (ASX: FANG)

Investors who believe the largest US technology stocks will outperform the market from here may be interested in the Global X Fang+ ETF. For a management expense of 0.35%, this ETF provides concentrated exposure to the largest listed technology stocks in the US. It contains just 10 holdings, with each accounting for between 9% and 11% of the ETF. Given this level of concentration, it could be paired with other ETFs as part of a broader portfolio to improve diversification

Global X Semiconductor ETF (ASX: SEMI)

Those looking for targeted exposure to the semiconductor industry may wish to invest in the Global X Semiconductor ETF. According to IoT Analytics, satellite IoT connections are expected to grow at a CAGR of 25% between 2022 and 2027, providing a strong tailwind for the semiconductor sector. For a management expense of 0.45%, this ETF tracks 30 businesses in the Solactive Global Semiconductor 30 Index. Unlike the previously mentioned four ETFs, this ETF is also geographically diversified. As of 31 March 2025, 64% of holdings were listed in the United States, 13% in Taiwan, 12% in the Netherlands and 5% in Japan.

Foolish Takeaway

ASX Investors looking to buy US-focused ASX ETFs have several options. They can select based on their desired level of diversification, preferred sector, or specific theme. This allows investors to tailor their ETF investing to match their risk tolerance and market outlook.

Motley Fool contributor Laura Stewart 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 BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF, Microsoft, Nvidia, and iShares S&P 500 ETF. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has recommended the following options: long January 2026 $395 calls on Microsoft and short January 2026 $405 calls on Microsoft. The Motley Fool Australia has positions in and has recommended BetaShares Nasdaq 100 ETF. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Microsoft, Nvidia, 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.

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