Why these ASX ETFs could be strong buys in 2026

Are you looking to add some exchange traded funds (ETFs) to your investment portfolio in 2026?

If you are, it could be worth checking out the three listed below that have recently been recommended by analysts at Betashares.

Here's what you need to know about these funds:

Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF (ASX: ASIA)

The Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF gives investors access to some of the most influential technology companies across Asia. This region is home to global leaders in semiconductors, ecommerce, gaming, and artificial intelligence, many of which are still growing faster than their Western counterparts.

Its holdings include stocks such as Tencent Holdings (SEHK: 700), Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (NYSE: TSM), PDD Holdings (NASDAQ: PDD), Baidu (NASDAQ: BIDU), and Alibaba Group (NYSE: BABA). These businesses sit at the heart of Asia's digital economy and benefit from powerful tailwinds. This includes rising middle-class consumption, rapid digital adoption, and ongoing innovation in AI and cloud computing.

Betashares Global Defence ETF (ASX: ARMR)

Another ASX ETF that could be a strong buy in 2026 is the Betashares Global Defence ETF. This popular fund offers investors exposure to a sector that has taken on increased strategic importance in recent years.

Heightened geopolitical tensions and rising defence budgets across the US, Europe, and Asia have created a strong long-term demand backdrop for defence contractors and military technology providers.

This ASX ETF invests in a portfolio of global defence leaders involved in aerospace, cybersecurity, advanced weapons systems, and defence services. This includes Lockheed Martin Corp (NYSE: LMT), Palantir Technologies Inc (NASDAQ: PLTR), and DroneShield Ltd (ASX: DRO).

As nations continue to modernise their military capabilities, the Betashares Global Defence ETF could provide investors with a rare combination of structural growth and defensive characteristics in 2026.

Betashares Global Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF (ASX: RBTZ)

Finally, the Betashares Global Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF could be an ASX ETF to buy in 2026.

This fund is focused on one of the most transformative trends of our time. Automation and AI are being adopted across manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, and services as businesses look to improve efficiency and manage labour shortages.

The Betashares Global Robotics and Artificial Intelligence ETF holds stocks such as Nvidia Corp (NASDAQ: NVDA), ABB (SWX: ABBN), Daifuku, and Intuitive Surgical Inc (NASDAQ: ISRG). These are all playing critical roles in the development and deployment of robotics and AI technologies. And as these innovations are still in relatively early stages, it suggests that there is still a long runway for growth.

While the sector can be volatile, the long-term case for automation and AI remains compelling.

The post Why these ASX ETFs could be strong buys in 2026 appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in Betashares Capital - Asia Technology Tigers Etf. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Abb, Baidu, DroneShield, Intuitive Surgical, Nvidia, Palantir Technologies, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing, and Tencent. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has recommended Alibaba Group and Lockheed Martin. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Nvidia. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

The Motley Fool's purpose is to help the world invest, better. Click here now for your free subscription to Take Stock, The Motley Fool's free investing newsletter. Packed with stock ideas and investing advice, it is essential reading for anyone looking to build and grow their wealth in the years ahead. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Bruce Jackson. 2026