We’re just over halfway through the year, which means it’s time to check the scoreboard. Bryce, Ren, Ally and Betashares’ Cam Gleeson reveal how their $25,000 portfolios are tracking, unpack their latest trades and confront an uncomfortable question: is all that stock picking actually adding value? From Asian tech and cybersecurity to copper, uranium and momentum stocks, there are plenty of lessons on timing, conviction and the dangers of overtrading.

In this episode:

00:00 Who’s winning the portfolio challenge?

02:03 A volatile few months for markets

02:37 Cam’s trades and the cost of overtrading

04:46 Ren doubles down on tech

08:09 Ally goes all-in on momentum

11:03 Bryce’s no-trade strategy pays off

13:52 Can anyone beat DHHF?

14:31 The final stretch of the challenge

Stocks & ETFs Mentioned: Betashares Diversified All Growth ETF (ASX: DHHF), Deep Yellow (ASX: DYL), REA Group (ASX: REA), Karoon Energy (ASX: KAR), Lynas Rare Earths (ASX: LYC), Betashares Emerging Markets Equity ETF (ASX: BEMG), Betashares Wealth Builder Diversified All Growth Geared Complex ETF (ASX: GHHF), Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF (ASX: HACK), Betashares Nasdaq 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ), Betashares Global Energy Companies ETF (ASX: FUEL), Pilbara Minerals (ASX: PLS), Life360 (ASX: 360), Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF (ASX: ASIA), Betashares S&P/ASX Australian Technology ETF (ASX: DRGN), Telix Pharmaceuticals (ASX: TLX), 4DMedical (ASX: 4DX), NEXTDC (ASX: NXT), Webjet Group (ASX: WJL), Megaport (ASX: MP1), Altria Group (NYSE: MO), Plato Global Alpha Fund, Pro Medicus (ASX: PME), Macquarie Group (ASX: MQG), BHP Group (ASX: BHP), Betashares Energy Transition Metals ETF (ASX: WIRE), Betashares Japan ETF Currency Hedged (ASX: HJPN)

Betashares Capital Ltd (ABN 78 139 566 868 AFSL 341181) is the issuer of the Betashares Funds, as well as Betashares Invest, the IDPS-like scheme available via Betashares Direct. Read the relevant Product Disclosure Statement and Target Market Determination, available at www.betashares.com.au, before making an investment decision. This information is general in nature and doesn’t take into account any person’s financial objectives, situation or needs. You should consider its appropriateness taking into account such factors and seek professional financial advice. Customers are not permitted to participate in more than one Betashares offer, promotion or incentive at the same time. If you are currently participating in, or have accepted, any other Betashares offer, you will not be eligible for this offer unless expressly stated otherwise. The $25 will expire in 60 days from receipt if not used to make an investment. T&Cs available here: https://www.betashares.com.au/campaigns/2026-q3-equity-mates

———

Want to get involved in the podcast? Record a voice note or send us a message

And come and join the conversation in the Equity Mates Facebook Discussion Group.

———

Want more Equity Mates? Across books, podcasts, video and email, however you want to learn about investing – we’ve got you covered.

Keep up with the news moving markets with our daily newsletter and podcast (Apple | Spotify)

We’re particularly excited to share our latest show: Basis Points

Listen to the podcast (Apple | Spotify)

Watch on YouTube

Read the monthly email

———

Download our free Basics of ETF handbook

Or our free 4-step stock checklist

Find company information on TIKR

Research reports from Good Research

Track your portfolio with Sharesight

———

This podcast is intended for education and entertainment purposes only. Any advice is general advice and has not taken into account your personal financial circumstances. Before acting on general advice, you should consider if it is relevant to your needs. If unsure, speak to a financial professional. The host of this podcast and their guests may have positions in the companies mentioned. Equity Mates Media is part of the Betashares Group but maintains editorial independence and operates under Australian Financial Services licence 540697.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

4 investors, $100,000: Who’s winning 6 months in? | Portfolio Challenge

Equity Mates Investing Podcast

4 investors, $100,000: Who’s winning 6 months in? | Portfolio Challenge