Jasmine Birtles
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5 Best Performing Global ETFs to Consider in 2025
Ruby Layram
21st Mar 2025
Investing in global Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) is a smart way to diversify your portfolio, giving you exposure to markets worldwide. For UK investors, understanding the best global ETFs to buy in March 2025 can be a game-changer. In this guide, we will explore what global ETFs are and highlight five top-performing options to consider.
What Are Global ETFs?
Global ETFs are investment funds that track a basket of international stocks, bonds, or other assets, allowing investors to gain exposure to global markets without needing to buy individual securities from different countries.
They offer diversification, cost-effectiveness, and ease of trading, making them popular among both novice and seasoned investors.
| Platform Name | What We Like | What We Don’t Like | Minimum Deposit |
|---|---|---|---|
| InvestEngine | The best ETF platform that offers zero commissions on stocks and shares, fully managed protfolios, and up to £4000 cashback for new ISA accounts. | Only offers ETFs, no access to cryptocurrencies | £100 |
| XTB | Zero commission on stocks and shares, invest in ready-made portfolios for passive investing, access over 6000 assets | XTB does not provide access to cryptocurrencies | £1 |
| eToro | Social trading, copy trading, free demo account, access to stocks and crypto | No pension options, high fees | $10 |
How to Know If a Global ETF is a ‘Good’ Investment?
Before we jump into our picks for the best global ETFs, here is a quick overview of how to know whether a global ETF is worth consider.
1. Check the ETF’s Holdings
Look at the countries and sectors that the ETF focuses on. A well-diversified global ETF should spread its investments across different regions, industries, and companies.
A good global ETF will include stocks from both developed and emerging markets, which can help balance risks and potential returns.
Be wary of ETFs that concentrate too heavily on one country or sector.
2. Evaluate the Expense Ratio
The expense ratio is the annual fee that the ETF charges to manage the fund.
It’s expressed as a percentage of your investment and can eat into your returns over time. Lower expense ratios are generally better, as they mean less of your money is being used to cover management costs.
3. Examine the ETF’s Performance History
Past performance can give you an idea of how well the ETF has performed in the past, but remember that past performance doesn’t guarantee future results.
However, it’s still helpful to see how the ETF has performed during different market conditions.
Tip: Look at the ETF’s 1-year, 3-year, and 5-year performance. Consistent returns over time may indicate a solid fund, but also consider the market conditions during those periods.
4. Look at the Dividend Yield (If Applicable)
If you’re interested in income generation, consider the dividend yield of the ETF. Many global ETFs pay dividends based on the stocks they hold.
A higher dividend yield can provide passive income, but be cautious—an unusually high yield could indicate a riskier investment.
5. Consider the ETF’s Risk Level
Every investment carries some level of risk, but global ETFs can be more volatile because they are exposed to international markets, which may be influenced by geopolitical issues, currency fluctuations, or other global factors.
Be sure to evaluate how much risk you’re comfortable taking on.
| Platform Name | What We Like | What We Don’t Like | Minimum Deposit |
|---|---|---|---|
| InvestEngine | The best ETF platform that offers zero commissions on stocks and shares, fully managed protfolios, and up to £4000 cashback for new ISA accounts. | Only offers ETFs, no access to cryptocurrencies | £100 |
| XTB | Zero commission on stocks and shares, invest in ready-made portfolios for passive investing, access over 6000 assets | XTB does not provide access to cryptocurrencies | £1 |
| eToro | Social trading, copy trading, free demo account, access to stocks and crypto | No pension options, high fees | $10 |
Top 5 Global ETFs to Consider in March 2025
We spend some time reviewing different global ETFs to find the most promising funds to invest in 2025. Here are our top picks!
Vanguard FTSE All-World UCITS ETF (VWRL)
This ETF tracks the FTSE All-World Index, encompassing large and mid-cap stocks across both developed and emerging markets. With over 3,900 holdings, it offers broad diversification. As of March 2025, it has shown steady growth, reflecting the overall positive performance of global equities.
Your money is at risk.
iShares MSCI ACWI ETF (ACWI)
The iShares MSCI ACWI ETF provides exposure to a wide range of companies across 23 developed and 24 emerging markets.
It includes over 2,800 holdings, offering comprehensive global coverage.
In the first quarter of 2025, ACWI has benefited from the strong performance of international markets, making it a solid choice for global exposure.
Your money is at risk.
SPDR MSCI World Financials UCITS ETF (WFIN)
Focusing on the financial sector, this ETF tracks the MSCI World Financials Index, which includes financial companies from developed markets worldwide.
Given the recent resilience of financial stocks, WFIN has performed admirably in early 2025, appealing to investors seeking sector-specific global exposure.
Your money is at risk.
iShares Global Government Bond UCITS ETF (IGLO)
For those interested in fixed income, the iShares Global Government Bond UCITS ETF offers exposure to government bonds from developed countries.
This ETF provides a defensive investment option, balancing equity exposure with stable returns from sovereign debt.
Your money is at risk.
Vanguard FTSE All-World High Dividend Yield UCITS ETF (VHYL)
This ETF targets large and mid-cap companies with higher-than-average dividend yields across developed and emerging markets.
For income-focused investors, VHYL offers the potential for regular dividend payments alongside global diversification.
Your money is at risk.
| Platform Name | What We Like | What We Don’t Like | Minimum Deposit |
|---|---|---|---|
| InvestEngine | The best ETF platform that offers zero commissions on stocks and shares, fully managed protfolios, and up to £4000 cashback for new ISA accounts. | Only offers ETFs, no access to cryptocurrencies | £100 |
| XTB | Zero commission on stocks and shares, invest in ready-made portfolios for passive investing, access over 6000 assets | XTB does not provide access to cryptocurrencies | £1 |
| eToro | Social trading, copy trading, free demo account, access to stocks and crypto | No pension options, high fees | $10 |
Final Thoughts
Investing in global ETFs allows you to diversify your portfolio beyond domestic markets, reducing risk and potentially enhancing returns. They provide exposure to various economies and industries, enabling you to capitalise on growth opportunities worldwide.
Choosing the best global ETF depends on your investment goals, risk tolerance, and market outlook.
The ETFs listed above offer diverse options, from broad market exposure to sector-specific and income-focused strategies. As always, conduct thorough research or consult with a financial advisor before making investment decisions.
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Disclaimer: MoneyMagpie is not a licensed financial advisor and therefore information found here including opinions, commentary, suggestions or strategies are for informational, entertainment or educational purposes only. This should not be considered as financial advice. Anyone thinking of investing should conduct their own due diligence. When investing your capital is at risk.
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