If you're just getting started with investing, the ASX can look like a maze of tickers, charts, and conflicting advice.

But there's a simple, smart way to build long-term wealth without getting overwhelmed — and it starts with exchange-traded funds (ETFs).

ETFs let you invest in a wide range of companies with a single trade. They offer instant diversification, low costs, and exposure to powerful long-term themes — all ideal features for beginner investors.

Here are three high-conviction ASX ETFs that I think are particularly well-suited for new investors looking to build a strong foundation for their portfolio.

Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ)

If you believe in the future of innovation, you'll want exposure to the Nasdaq 100 — and that's exactly what this ASX ETF delivers. It tracks some of the world's most powerful and disruptive tech companies, including Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL), Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT), Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA), Amazon (NASDAQ: AMZN), and Alphabet (NASDAQ: GOOG).

These aren't just buzzwords — they are businesses that shape how we live, work, and consume. And despite some short-term volatility, they've been consistent long-term performers.

For beginners, this ASX ETF offers an easy way to invest in global tech giants without the risk of picking individual winners. It is growth-focused, future-facing, and an excellent core holding for anyone with a long time horizon.

Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF (ASX: HACK)

Cybersecurity is no longer optional — it is essential. And that makes Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF a very timely and relevant ASX ETF.

This fund provides exposure to a specialised basket of global cybersecurity companies, including names like CrowdStrike (NASDAQ: CRWD), Palo Alto Networks (NASDAQ: PANW), Fortinet (NASDAQ: FTNT), and Okta (NASDAQ: OKTA). As more of the world moves online, demand for security infrastructure is expected to soar.

This popular ETF taps into a structural growth theme with real-world importance. For beginner investors, it is a great way to participate in the digital security boom without needing to understand the tech behind it.

Betashares S&P 500 Equal Weight ETF (ASX: QUS)

Finally, most U.S. market ASX ETFs are weighted heavily toward mega-cap names like Apple, Microsoft, and Nvidia — which means they can become concentrated in just a few stocks. The Betashares S&P 500 Equal Weight ETF takes a different approach, giving equal weight to every company in the S&P 500.

That means your exposure is spread evenly across big and mid-sized names, from tech giants to industrials, healthcare, consumer staples, and more. It reduces single-stock risk and gives you broader diversification across the entire U.S. economy. This ASX ETF was recently named as one to buy by Betashares.