The best and worst-performing global share ETFs of 2025

The best-performing global share ETF of 2025 is the Global X EURO STOXX 50 ETF (ASX: ESTX), which returned 22.8%. Other top performers include the Betashares FTSE 100 ETF (ASX: F100) with a 21.5% return and the Vanguard FTSE Europe Shares ETF (ASX: VEQ) with a 20.2% return.

The best-performing global share ETF of 2025 is the Global X EURO STOXX 50 ETF (ASX: ESTX) with a 22.8% return. Other top performers include the Betashares FTSE 100 ETF (ASX: F100) and the Vanguard FTSE Europe Shares ETF (ASX: VEQ).

The iShares S&P Small-Cap ETF (ASX: IJR) was the worst-performing global share ETF in 2025, with a return of 6.9%. This ETF focuses on smaller US-listed companies, which have faced challenges such as high inflation and interest charges.

The iShares S&P Small-Cap ETF (ASX: IJR) was the worst-performing global share ETF in 2025, with a return of 6.9%.

The InvestSMART star rating system provides a score out of five for each ETF, helping investors identify long-term quality over short-term performance. This system aids in making informed investment decisions by highlighting the potential for sustained growth.

The InvestSMART star rating system provides a score out of five for each ETF, helping investors identify long-term quality over short-term performance noise.

European-focused ETFs, like the Global X EURO STOXX 50 ETF, have performed well due to their investment in leading international brands such as SAP, Siemens, and LVMH. These companies have shown resilience and growth, contributing to the strong performance of these ETFs.

European-focused ETFs like the Global X EURO STOXX 50 ETF performed well due to their investment in leading international brands such as SAP, Siemens, and LVMH, which have shown strong returns.

The Betashares FTSE 100 ETF (ASX: F100) performed well with a 21.5% return due to its exposure to the 100 largest companies on the London Stock Exchange. Familiar brands like HSBC, Rolls-Royce, and AstraZeneca have contributed to its success.

Small-cap ETFs like the iShares S&P Small-Cap ETF faced challenges due to their exposure to smaller US-listed companies, which often lack pricing power and face higher interest charges during periods of high inflation.

Global share ETFs offer Australian investors diversification by providing access to international markets and companies. This allows investors to spread risk and potentially benefit from growth opportunities outside the local market.

The Management Expense Ratio (MER) is significant as it impacts the net returns of an ETF. Lower MERs can lead to higher net returns for investors.

Smaller US-listed companies, like those in the iShares S&P Small-Cap ETF, have faced challenges such as high inflation and interest charges. These companies often lack the pricing power of larger brands, making it difficult to pass on rising costs to consumers.

Global share ETFs managed to deliver strong returns despite market volatility caused by US tariff announcements, showcasing the resilience and potential of international markets.

Considering both short-term and long-term performance is crucial because short-term results can be volatile and not indicative of future returns. Long-term performance provides a better understanding of an ETF's potential for sustained growth and stability.

The Betashares FTSE 100 ETF provides exposure to the 100 largest companies listed on the London Stock Exchange, including well-known brands like HSBC, Rolls-Royce, AstraZeneca, Unilever, Shell, and BP.