How to build an ETF portfolio (from scratch) - Ep 1: Portfolio Construction Series

In this Australian Investors Podcast episode, Owen Rask sits down with Jess Leung from Global X to kick off a six-part portfolio construction series by tackling the question most ETF investors skip too quickly: what should a good portfolio actually look like from day one? Jess explains why a portfolio should be treated as a system, not a collection of random ideas, and why every ETF needs a job to do. They unpack the difference between a core portfolio and satellite positions, why asset allocation matters more than obsessing over tiny ETF differences, and how investors can think more clearly about risk tolerance, time frame and long-term goals before buying anything. The conversation also explores common blind spots, including home bias, portfolio overlap and the hidden costs that come from spreads, brokerage and repeated trading over time. Jess shares practical ways to look through a portfolio, spot duplicated exposures, and decide whether a position belongs in the core or the satellite bucket. They finish with real ETF examples from the Global X range, including broad Australian exposure, global equity options, fixed income and currency hedging, giving investors a practical framework for building something more deliberate from the start. If you want to build a smarter ETF portfolio with more intention and less guesswork, this is a strong place to start. Episode resources – Speak with the Rask Advice team – Ask a question (select the Investors podcast) Show partner resources – ETF investor? Go beyond ordinary with Global X: View all funds – Visit TermPlus to learn more – Join Pearler using the code "RASKSWITCH" and get $32 of Pearler Credit – Whatever comes next for your business, power it with Stripe Rask resources – All services – Financial Planning – Invest with us – Access Show Notes – Ask a question – We love feedback! Follow us on social media – Instagram: @rask.invest – TikTok: @rask.invest DISCLAIMER: This podcast contains general financial information only. That means the information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Because of that, you should consider if the information is appropriate to you and your needs, before acting on it. If you’re confused about what that means or what your needs are, you should always consult a licensed and trusted financial planner. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in this podcast, including any financial, taxation, and/or legal information. Remember, past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. The Rask Group is NOT a qualified tax accountant, financial (tax) adviser, or financial adviser. Access The Rask Group's Financial Services Guide (FSG): https://www.rask.com.au/fsg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices