Nothing particularly complicated, but I think getting the balance right could make a big difference over time.<\/p>\n
Here’s how I’d approach it.<\/p>\n
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Image source: Getty Images<\/p>\n
I’d start with ETFs<\/p>\n
The first thing I’d do is build a decent position in ETFs.<\/p>\n
One that really interests me is the\u00a0Vanguard Australian Shares High Yield ETF\u00a0(ASX: VHY<\/a>).<\/p>\n It holds a diversified portfolio of Aussie companies selected for their generous\u00a0dividend yields<\/a>.<\/p>\n And that’s something I’d want in a retirement portfolio.<\/p>\n While I’m still working, I’d reinvest the distributions to buy more units and let compounding do its thing.<\/p>\n Eventually, I’d like those distributions to provide a steady income stream to help cover my living expenses.<\/p>\n I’d also add a growth-focused ETF with international exposure, so I’m not relying entirely on the Australian market.<\/p>\n The idea would be to build a solid foundation that could continue growing while generating income along the way.<\/p>\n I’d also back some growth stocks<\/p>\n Now, while ETFs would make up a substantial part of my portfolio, I wouldn’t stop there.<\/p>\n I’d also want exposure to individual companies that I believe have the potential to become much bigger businesses over the coming years.<\/p>\n Two that interest me are\u00a0WiseTech Global Ltd\u00a0(ASX: WTC<\/a>) and\u00a0Ouster Inc\u00a0(NASDAQ: OUST<\/a>).<\/p>\n WiseTech operates a global logistics software business through its CargoWise platform, which helps freight forwarders manage complex supply chains.<\/p>\n Meanwhile, Ouster offers exposure to lidar technology, robotics, and physical AI.<\/p>\n Its sensors and software help machines understand their surroundings, with applications across industrial automation, robotics, and smart infrastructure.<\/p>\n Of course, these aren’t risk-free investments, and I wouldn’t be putting all my money into them.<\/p>\n But I’d be happy allocating a portion of my portfolio to businesses I believe have plenty of room to grow.<\/p>\n Time would be my biggest advantage<\/p>\n One thing I wouldn’t do is buy shares and expect them to double in six months.<\/p>\n That’s not how I’d look to build a retirement portfolio.<\/p>\n I’d want at least a three-year investment horizon for my individual growth stocks, though I’d ideally hold them much longer.<\/p>\n And with ETFs, I’d be looking at decades.<\/p>\n I’d also keep investing regularly, especially when the market gives us opportunities to buy quality businesses at more attractive prices.<\/p>\n