Vanguard ETFs represent the gold standard in low-cost index investing, offering investors access to diversified portfolios with some of the lowest expense ratios in the financial industry.
Founded by legendary investor John Bogle, Vanguard pioneered the index fund revolution and continues leading the industry with over $8 trillion in global assets. These 35 Vanguard ETFs ranked by assets under management represent the most popular and widely-held funds among individual and institutional investors.
This comprehensive guide analyzes the best Vanguard ETFs, providing detailed breakdowns of holdings, expense ratios, dividend yields, and investment strategies to help you build a diversified portfolio.
Understanding ETF Investing: Essential Definitions
Before diving into specific Vanguard ETFs, understanding key investment terms helps investors make informed decisions.
What is an ETF?
An ETF (Exchange-Traded Fund) is an investment fund that trades on stock exchanges, similar to individual stocks.
ETFs hold a basket of securities such as stocks, bonds, commodities, or real estate, providing instant diversification. Unlike mutual funds that trade once daily at net asset value, ETFs trade throughout the day at market prices.
This structure combines the diversification benefits of mutual funds with the trading flexibility and tax efficiency of individual stocks. Investors can buy and sell ETF shares through any brokerage account during market hours.
What is an Expense Ratio?
The expense ratio represents the annual fee charged by an ETF, expressed as a percentage of invested assets.
For example, a 0.03% expense ratio means you pay $3 annually for every $10,000 invested. This fee covers fund management, administrative costs, and operational expenses.
Vanguard’s expense ratios are among the industry’s lowest, with many flagship ETFs charging just 0.03-0.04% annually. Over decades, these minimal costs compound dramatically compared to higher-fee alternatives that charge 0.50% or more.
What is a Dividend?
A dividend is a payment made by a company to its shareholders, typically from profits or cash reserves.
Companies distribute dividends as cash payments, usually quarterly, to reward shareholders for their investment. Dividend-paying stocks provide regular income streams beyond potential capital appreciation.
ETFs collect dividends from their underlying holdings and distribute them to ETF shareholders, typically on a quarterly basis. The frequency and amount depend on the dividend policies of the stocks held within each ETF.
What is Dividend Yield?
Dividend yield measures the annual dividend payment as a percentage of the current stock or ETF price.
For example, if an ETF trades at $100 per share and pays $3 in annual dividends, the dividend yield is 3.00%. Dividend yield fluctuates as ETF prices change, even if dividend payments remain constant.
Higher dividend yields indicate more income relative to the investment amount, though ultra-high yields may signal dividend sustainability concerns. Vanguard’s dividend-focused ETFs typically yield between 1.5% and 4.5%.
What is Market Capitalization?
Market capitalization (market cap) represents the total dollar value of a company’s outstanding shares.
Calculated by multiplying share price by total shares outstanding, market cap determines whether companies qualify as small-cap (under $2 billion), mid-cap ($2-10 billion), large-cap ($10-200 billion), or mega-cap (over $200 billion).
ETFs often focus on specific market cap ranges, providing targeted exposure to different company sizes. Large and mega-cap stocks generally offer more stability while small-caps provide higher growth potential with increased volatility.
What is an Index Fund?
An index fund is a passively managed investment fund designed to track the performance of a specific market index.
Rather than actively selecting stocks, index funds hold all or representative samples of securities in their target index. This passive approach minimizes trading costs and management fees.
Vanguard’s ETFs are predominantly index funds tracking benchmarks like the S&P 500, Total Stock Market, or specific sectors and regions. Index investing has proven highly effective for long-term wealth building.
Complete Vanguard ETFs Ranked by Assets
Below is the complete ranking of 35 Vanguard ETFs by assets under management, showing the most popular and widely-held funds.
| Symbol | Fund Name | Assets (B) | Div. Yield | Exp. Ratio |
| VOO | Vanguard S&P 500 ETF | $781.5B | 1.16% | 0.03% |
| VTI | Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF | $539.2B | 1.16% | 0.03% |
| VUG | Vanguard Growth ETF | $193.0B | 0.44% | 0.04% |
| VEA | Vanguard FTSE Developed Markets ETF | $180.0B | 2.81% | 0.03% |
| VTV | Vanguard Value ETF | $149.0B | 2.10% | 0.04% |
| BND | Vanguard Total Bond Market ETF | $143.9B | 3.80% | 0.03% |
| VGT | Vanguard Information Technology ETF | $109.8B | 0.43% | 0.09% |
| VXUS | Vanguard Total International Stock ETF | $109.0B | 2.80% | 0.05% |
| VWO | Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF | $103.5B | 2.88% | 0.07% |
| VIG | Vanguard Dividend Appreciation ETF | $97.4B | 1.65% | 1.65% |
| VO | Vanguard Mid-Cap ETF | $86.6B | 1.55% | 0.04% |
| BNDX | Vanguard Total International Bond ETF | $73.5B | 4.36% | 0.07% |
| VYM | Vanguard High Dividend Yield Index ETF | $65.3B | 2.51% | 0.06% |
| VB | Vanguard Small-Cap ETF | $64.5B | 1.38% | 0.05% |
| VCIT | Vanguard Intermediate-Term Corporate Bond ETF | $58.0B | 4.55% | 0.03% |
| VT | Vanguard Total World Stock ETF | $55.2B | 1.72% | 0.06% |
| VEU | Vanguard FTSE All-World ex-US Index Fund | $50.6B | 2.75% | 0.04% |
| VV | Vanguard Large-Cap ETF | $45.1B | 1.12% | 0.04% |
| VTEBV | Vanguard Tax-Exempt Bond ETF | $41.5B | 3.25% | 0.03% |
| BSV | Vanguard Short-Term Bond ETF | $41.0B | 3.77% | 0.03% |
| VCSH | Vanguard Short-Term Corporate Bond ETF | $40.2B | 4.29% | 0.03% |
| VGIT | Vanguard Intermediate-Term Treasury ETF | $35.5B | 3.75% | 0.03% |
| VONG | Vanguard Russell 1000 Growth ETF | $34.6B | 0.47% | 0.07% |
| VNQ | Vanguard Real Estate ETF | $33.1B | 3.94% | 0.13% |
| MGK | Vanguard Mega Cap Growth ETF | $31.7B | 0.39% | 0.07% |
| VBR | Vanguard Small Cap Value ETF | $30.0B | 2.05% | 0.07% |
| VGK | Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF | $27.4B | 2.94% | 0.06% |
| BIV | Vanguard Intermediate-Term Bond ETF | $26.7B | 3.93% | 0.03% |
| VGSH | Vanguard Short-Term Treasury ETF | $25.3B | 4.04% | 0.03% |
| VXF | Vanguard Extended Market ETF | $23.2B | 1.15% | 0.05% |
| VOOG | Vanguard S&P 500 Growth ETF | $20.6B | 0.50% | 0.07% |
| VBK | Vanguard Small-Cap Growth ETF | $19.7B | 0.58% | 0.07% |
Note: Assets under management and yields are current as of November 2025 and subject to change.
Best Vanguard ETFs: Detailed Analysis with Holdings
Below you’ll find comprehensive analysis of the best Vanguard ETFs ranked by assets under management, including top 10 holdings for equity funds.
Best Vanguard ETF #1: Vanguard S&P 500 ETF (VOO)
Assets Under Management: $781.5 billion
Dividend Yield: 1.16%
Expense Ratio: 0.03%
Number of Holdings: 507
The Vanguard S&P 500 ETF is the largest Vanguard fund and tracks the iconic S&P 500 Index of America’s largest companies.
VOO provides exposure to 500 of the largest U.S. companies selected by S&P Dow Jones Indices based on market capitalization, liquidity, and sector representation. The fund employs full replication, holding all 500 stocks in the same proportions as the index.
With nearly $800 billion in assets and a rock-bottom 0.03% expense ratio, VOO represents the most cost-effective way to own the U.S. large-cap market. The fund’s massive scale creates exceptional liquidity with razor-thin bid-ask spreads.
The S&P 500 has delivered average annual returns of approximately 10% over the past century, making it the foundation for countless investment portfolios. VOO’s combination of diversification, low cost, and consistent performance makes it the ultimate core holding.
Top 10 Holdings:
- NVIDIA Corporation (NVDA) – 7.95%
- Microsoft Corporation (MSFT) – 6.72%
- Apple Inc. (AAPL) – 6.60%
- Amazon.com Inc. (AMZN) – 3.72%
- Meta Platforms Inc. (META) – 2.78%
- Broadcom Inc. (AVGO) – 2.71%
- Alphabet Inc. Class A (GOOGL) – 2.47%
- Tesla Inc. (TSLA) – 2.18%
- Alphabet Inc. Class C (GOOG) – 1.99%
- Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (BRK.B) – 1.61%
Best Vanguard ETF #2: Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI)
Assets Under Management: $539.2 billion
Dividend Yield: 1.16%
Expense Ratio: 0.03%
Number of Holdings: 3,669
The Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF holds the entire U.S. equity market from mega-cap giants to micro-cap companies.
VTI tracks the CRSP US Total Market Index, providing exposure to approximately 3,700 stocks representing 100% of the investable U.S. stock market. This comprehensive approach captures large, mid, small, and micro-cap stocks across all sectors.
As Vanguard’s second-largest fund with over $500 billion in assets, VTI offers complete U.S. equity exposure in a single fund. The total market approach eliminates the need for separate large, mid, and small-cap allocations.
With the same 0.03% expense ratio as VOO and 1.16% dividend yield, VTI provides slightly broader diversification by including small and mid-cap stocks. This makes VTI the ultimate one-fund solution for U.S. equity exposure.
Top 10 Holdings:
- Apple Inc. (AAPL) – 5.60%
- NVIDIA Corporation (NVDA) – 5.35%
- Microsoft Corporation (MSFT) – 5.18%
- Amazon.com Inc. (AMZN) – 3.15%
- Meta Platforms Inc. (META) – 2.24%
- Alphabet Inc. Class A (GOOGL) – 1.92%
- Broadcom Inc. (AVGO) – 1.76%
- Tesla Inc. (TSLA) – 1.75%
- Alphabet Inc. Class C (GOOG) – 1.59%
- Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (BRK.B) – 1.30%
Best Vanguard ETF #3: Vanguard Growth ETF (VUG)
Assets Under Management: $193.0 billion
Dividend Yield: 0.44%
Expense Ratio: 0.04%
Number of Holdings: 247
The Vanguard Growth ETF concentrates on growth stocks with above-average revenue and earnings expansion.
VUG tracks the CRSP US Large Cap Growth Index, holding approximately 250 large-cap companies classified as growth based on sales growth, earnings growth, and momentum factors. The fund provides pure growth exposure for investors seeking capital appreciation.
Growth stocks tend to outperform during economic expansions and bull markets but can underperform during downturns. VUG’s heavy technology weighting reflects the sector’s dominance among growth companies.
With nearly $200 billion in assets and a 0.04% expense ratio, VUG is one of the largest and most cost-effective pure growth funds available. The low 0.44% dividend yield reflects growth companies’ preference for reinvesting earnings rather than paying dividends.
Top 10 Holdings:
- Apple Inc. (AAPL) – 11.82%
- NVIDIA Corporation (NVDA) – 10.30%
- Microsoft Corporation (MSFT) – 10.26%
- Amazon.com Inc. (AMZN) – 6.29%
- Meta Platforms Inc. (META) – 4.23%
- Alphabet Inc. Class A (GOOGL) – 3.66%
- Broadcom Inc. (AVGO) – 3.49%
- Tesla Inc. (TSLA) – 3.45%
- Alphabet Inc. Class C (GOOG) – 3.12%
- Eli Lilly and Company (LLY) – 2.24%
Best Vanguard ETF #4: Vanguard FTSE Developed Markets ETF (VEA)
Assets Under Management: $180.0 billion
Dividend Yield: 2.81%
Expense Ratio: 0.03%
Number of Holdings: 4,018
The Vanguard FTSE Developed Markets ETF is the largest international stock fund, providing exposure to developed markets outside the United States.
VEA tracks the FTSE Developed All Cap ex US Index, holding approximately 4,000 stocks across large, mid, and small-cap companies in developed international markets. The fund provides comprehensive coverage of Europe, Asia Pacific, and Canada.
With nearly $180 billion in assets and a 0.03% expense ratio, VEA offers exceptionally cost-effective developed international exposure. The fund serves as the core international equity holding for millions of investors building globally diversified portfolios.
The 2.81% dividend yield is substantially higher than U.S. equity funds, reflecting international markets’ stronger dividend culture. VEA pairs perfectly with VTI or VOO to create complete global stock market exposure.
Top 10 Holdings:
- TSMC (Taiwan Semiconductor) – 3.23%
- Nestle SA – 1.85%
- ASML Holding NV – 1.56%
- Samsung Electronics Co Ltd – 1.50%
- Novo Nordisk A/S – 1.35%
- Shell PLC – 1.22%
- AstraZeneca PLC – 1.05%
- Roche Holding AG – 0.95%
- LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton – 0.92%
- Toyota Motor Corp – 0.87%
Best Vanguard ETF #5: Vanguard Value ETF (VTV)
Assets Under Management: $149.0 billion
Dividend Yield: 2.10%
Expense Ratio: 0.04%
Number of Holdings: 349
The Vanguard Value ETF focuses on large-cap value stocks with lower valuations and higher dividend yields.
VTV tracks the CRSP US Large Cap Value Index, holding approximately 350 large-cap companies classified as value based on price-to-book ratios, price-to-earnings ratios, and dividend yields. The fund provides pure value exposure for style-focused investors.
Value investing has a long history of outperformance over full market cycles, though value stocks can underperform during growth-dominated periods. VTV’s sector composition differs dramatically from VUG, with heavier weights in financials, healthcare, and industrials.
With $149 billion in assets and a 0.04% expense ratio, VTV is the dominant low-cost large-cap value fund. The 2.10% dividend yield is substantially higher than growth funds, reflecting value stocks’ income orientation.
Top 10 Holdings:
- Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (BRK.B) – 3.73%
- JPMorgan Chase & Co (JPM) – 2.83%
- Exxon Mobil Corporation (XOM) – 2.69%
- Johnson & Johnson (JNJ) – 2.02%
- Procter & Gamble Co (PG) – 1.88%
- UnitedHealth Group Inc (UNH) – 1.76%
- Chevron Corporation (CVX) – 1.68%
- Bank of America Corp (BAC) – 1.49%
- AbbVie Inc (ABBV) – 1.48%
- Wells Fargo & Company (WFC) – 1.35%
Best Vanguard ETF #6: Vanguard Total Bond Market ETF (BND)
Assets Under Management: $143.9 billion
Dividend Yield: 3.80%
Expense Ratio: 0.03%
Number of Holdings: 11,582
The Vanguard Total Bond Market ETF provides comprehensive exposure to the U.S. investment-grade bond market.
BND tracks the Bloomberg U.S. Aggregate Float Adjusted Index, holding approximately 11,500 government bonds, corporate bonds, and mortgage-backed securities. The fund provides broad fixed income exposure across the entire U.S. bond market.
With nearly $144 billion in assets and a 0.03% expense ratio, BND is the dominant total bond market fund and serves as the fixed income foundation for countless portfolios. The fund’s comprehensive approach provides instant bond diversification.
The 3.80% dividend yield provides attractive current income from investment-grade bonds. BND offers portfolio stability and income generation, serving as a ballast against stock market volatility.
Note: Bond ETF holdings are primarily individual bonds rather than stocks, so individual holdings are not listed here.
Best Vanguard ETF #7: Vanguard Information Technology ETF (VGT)
Assets Under Management: $109.8 billion
Dividend Yield: 0.43%
Expense Ratio: 0.09%
Number of Holdings: 330
The Vanguard Information Technology ETF provides concentrated exposure to the technology sector.
VGT tracks the MSCI US Investable Market Information Technology 25/50 Index, holding approximately 330 technology stocks including software, hardware, semiconductors, and IT services companies. The fund includes technology giants like Apple, Microsoft, and NVIDIA.
Technology remains one of the fastest-growing sectors with secular tailwinds from digitalization, cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. VGT provides pure-play technology exposure for investors bullish on the sector’s future.
With nearly $110 billion in assets, VGT is one of Vanguard’s largest sector funds. The low 0.43% dividend yield reflects technology companies’ focus on growth and reinvestment over income distributions.
Top 10 Holdings:
- Apple Inc. (AAPL) – 20.64%
- NVIDIA Corporation (NVDA) – 19.29%
- Microsoft Corporation (MSFT) – 18.06%
- Broadcom Inc. (AVGO) – 5.23%
- Oracle Corporation (ORCL) – 2.54%
- Salesforce Inc (CRM) – 2.29%
- Advanced Micro Devices Inc (AMD) – 2.19%
- Adobe Inc (ADBE) – 2.07%
- Accenture PLC (ACN) – 1.96%
- Cisco Systems Inc (CSCO) – 1.91%
Best Vanguard ETF #8: Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (VXUS)
Assets Under Management: $109.0 billion
Dividend Yield: 2.80%
Expense Ratio: 0.05%
Number of Holdings: 8,077
The Vanguard Total International Stock ETF provides comprehensive global equity exposure outside the United States.
VXUS tracks the FTSE Global All Cap ex US Index, holding over 8,000 stocks across developed and emerging markets worldwide. This fund essentially owns every investable stock outside the U.S., providing maximum geographic diversification.
The fund serves as the international complement to VTI for investors building complete global equity portfolios. Combined, VTI and VXUS own virtually every publicly traded stock globally.
With $109 billion in assets and a 0.05% expense ratio, VXUS offers exceptional value for comprehensive international exposure. The 2.80% dividend yield and broad diversification make it a core holding for globally diversified portfolios.
Top 10 Holdings:
- TSMC (Taiwan Semiconductor) – 2.01%
- Nestle SA – 1.15%
- Tencent Holdings Ltd – 0.97%
- ASML Holding NV – 0.97%
- Samsung Electronics Co Ltd – 0.93%
- Novo Nordisk A/S – 0.84%
- Shell PLC – 0.76%
- AstraZeneca PLC – 0.65%
- Alibaba Group Holding Ltd – 0.59%
- Roche Holding AG – 0.59%
Best Vanguard ETF #9: Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF (VWO)
Assets Under Management: $103.5 billion
Dividend Yield: 2.88%
Expense Ratio: 0.07%
Number of Holdings: 5,847
The Vanguard FTSE Emerging Markets ETF provides exposure to developing economies with higher growth potential.
VWO tracks the FTSE Emerging Markets All Cap China A Inclusion Index, holding over 5,800 stocks across emerging markets including China, India, Taiwan, Brazil, South Africa, and dozens of other developing countries. The fund captures growth potential in emerging economies.
Emerging markets offer higher growth potential than developed markets but come with elevated political, currency, and economic risks. VWO provides diversified emerging market exposure, reducing single-country risk.
With $103.5 billion in assets and a 0.07% expense ratio, VWO is the dominant low-cost emerging markets ETF. The 2.88% dividend yield and strong long-term growth prospects make it attractive for globally diversified portfolios.
Top 10 Holdings:
- TSMC (Taiwan Semiconductor) – 8.31%
- Tencent Holdings Ltd – 4.07%
- Samsung Electronics Co Ltd – 3.78%
- Alibaba Group Holding Ltd – 2.50%
- Meituan Class B – 1.50%
- Reliance Industries Ltd – 1.42%
- PDD Holdings Inc ADR – 1.34%
- China Construction Bank Corp – 1.20%
- ICICI Bank Ltd – 1.12%
- Infosys Ltd – 1.10%
Best Vanguard ETF #10: Vanguard Dividend Appreciation ETF (VIG)
Assets Under Management: $97.4 billion
Dividend Yield: 1.65%
Expense Ratio: 0.05%
Number of Holdings: 332
The Vanguard Dividend Appreciation ETF focuses on companies with consistent dividend growth track records.
VIG tracks the S&P U.S. Dividend Growers Index, holding approximately 330 stocks with at least 10 consecutive years of dividend increases. The fund excludes the highest-yielding 25% of stocks, focusing on dividend growth over current yield.
Dividend growth investing targets companies with sustainable competitive advantages and financial strength to increase dividends annually. VIG provides exposure to dividend aristocrats and consistent dividend growers.
With nearly $100 billion in assets and a 0.05% expense ratio, VIG is one of the most popular dividend growth funds. The 1.65% yield grows over time through consistent dividend increases from portfolio companies.
Top 10 Holdings:
- Microsoft Corporation (MSFT) – 4.86%
- Apple Inc. (AAPL) – 4.40%
- Broadcom Inc. (AVGO) – 3.78%
- JPMorgan Chase & Co (JPM) – 3.29%
- UnitedHealth Group Inc (UNH) – 2.97%
- Visa Inc Class A (V) – 2.87%
- Mastercard Inc Class A (MA) – 2.68%
- Johnson & Johnson (JNJ) – 2.31%
- Procter & Gamble Co (PG) – 2.13%
- Home Depot Inc (HD) – 2.07%
Best Vanguard ETF #11: Vanguard Mid-Cap ETF (VO)
Assets Under Management: $86.6 billion
Dividend Yield: 1.55%
Expense Ratio: 0.04%
Number of Holdings: 383
The Vanguard Mid-Cap ETF provides exposure to mid-sized U.S. companies positioned between large and small-cap stocks.
VO tracks the CRSP US Mid Cap Index, holding approximately 380 mid-cap stocks with market capitalizations between roughly $2 billion and $50 billion. The fund captures companies large enough for stability but small enough for significant growth potential.
Mid-cap stocks historically offer an attractive risk-return profile, providing better growth than large-caps with less volatility than small-caps. VO gives investors exposure to this “sweet spot” in the market cap spectrum.
With $86.6 billion in assets and a 0.04% expense ratio, VO offers cost-effective mid-cap exposure. The 1.55% dividend yield and balance of growth and stability make it popular for diversified portfolios.
Top 10 Holdings:
- MPLX LP – 0.84%
- Constellation Energy Corp – 0.78%
- CBRE Group Inc Class A – 0.76%
- Targa Resources Corp – 0.72%
- Vistra Corp – 0.71%
- First Solar Inc – 0.69%
- Apollo Global Management Inc – 0.67%
- Liberty Media Corp-Liberty Formula One Class C – 0.66%
- TransDigm Group Inc – 0.65%
- Enterprise Products Partners LP – 0.64%
Best Vanguard ETF #12: Vanguard High Dividend Yield Index ETF (VYM)
Assets Under Management: $65.3 billion
Dividend Yield: 2.51%
Expense Ratio: 0.06%
Number of Holdings: 560
The Vanguard High Dividend Yield Index ETF focuses on large-cap stocks with above-average dividend yields.
VYM tracks the FTSE High Dividend Yield Index, holding approximately 560 stocks with above-average dividend yields. The fund excludes REITs and focuses on large-cap dividend-paying stocks across all sectors.
High dividend yield strategies provide current income while potentially offering lower volatility than the broad market. VYM screens for yield while maintaining quality through its large-cap focus.
With $65.3 billion in assets and a 0.06% expense ratio, VYM is one of the largest and most cost-effective dividend ETFs available. The 2.51% yield provides attractive current income for dividend-focused investors.
Top 10 Holdings:
- Broadcom Inc. (AVGO) – 3.85%
- JPMorgan Chase & Co (JPM) – 3.59%
- Exxon Mobil Corporation (XOM) – 3.25%
- Johnson & Johnson (JNJ) – 2.25%
- Procter & Gamble Co (PG) – 2.07%
- Chevron Corporation (CVX) – 1.92%
- Merck & Co Inc (MRK) – 1.85%
- AbbVie Inc (ABBV) – 1.83%
- Home Depot Inc (HD) – 1.79%
- Coca-Cola Co (KO) – 1.66%
Best Vanguard ETF #13: Vanguard Small-Cap ETF (VB)
Assets Under Management: $64.5 billion
Dividend Yield: 1.38%
Expense Ratio: 0.05%
Number of Holdings: 1,459
The Vanguard Small-Cap ETF provides broad exposure to small-cap U.S. companies with higher growth potential.
VB tracks the CRSP US Small Cap Index, holding approximately 1,450 small-cap stocks with market capitalizations between roughly $300 million and $2 billion. The fund captures the growth potential of smaller, more agile companies.
Small-cap stocks historically provide higher long-term returns than large-caps in exchange for higher volatility and risk. VB offers diversified small-cap exposure, reducing single-stock concentration risk.
With $64.5 billion in assets and a 0.05% expense ratio, VB is the leading broad small-cap ETF. The 1.38% dividend yield and strong long-term growth characteristics make it popular for growth-oriented portfolios.
Top 10 Holdings:
- Sprouts Farmers Market Inc – 0.37%
- Insmed Inc – 0.36%
- Freshpet Inc – 0.34%
- ATI Inc – 0.33%
- TopBuild Corp – 0.32%
- Comfort Systems USA Inc – 0.32%
- Lattice Semiconductor Corp – 0.31%
- Wingstop Inc – 0.31%
- EMCOR Group Inc – 0.30%
- Interactive Brokers Group Inc Class A – 0.30%
Best Vanguard ETF #14: Vanguard Total World Stock ETF (VT)
Assets Under Management: $55.2 billion
Dividend Yield: 1.72%
Expense Ratio: 0.06%
Number of Holdings: 9,817
The Vanguard Total World Stock ETF provides complete global equity exposure in a single fund.
VT tracks the FTSE Global All Cap Index, holding over 9,800 stocks across developed and emerging markets worldwide including the United States. This fund essentially owns the entire global equity market in one diversified portfolio.
For investors seeking ultimate simplicity, VT offers complete global diversification without requiring separate U.S. and international funds. The single-fund approach automatically maintains market-cap-weighted geographic allocation.
With $55.2 billion in assets, a 0.06% expense ratio, and 1.72% dividend yield, VT provides cost-effective global exposure. The fund appeals to passive investors following a total world approach to equity investing.
Top 10 Holdings:
- Apple Inc. (AAPL) – 3.37%
- NVIDIA Corporation (NVDA) – 3.22%
- Microsoft Corporation (MSFT) – 3.12%
- Amazon.com Inc. (AMZN) – 1.90%
- Meta Platforms Inc. (META) – 1.35%
- Alphabet Inc. Class A (GOOGL) – 1.16%
- Broadcom Inc. (AVGO) – 1.06%
- Tesla Inc. (TSLA) – 1.05%
- Alphabet Inc. Class C (GOOG) – 0.96%
- TSMC (Taiwan Semiconductor) – 0.88%
Best Vanguard ETF #15: Vanguard FTSE All-World ex-US Index Fund (VEU)
Assets Under Management: $50.6 billion
Dividend Yield: 2.75%
Expense Ratio: 0.04%
Number of Holdings: 3,932
The Vanguard FTSE All-World ex-US Index Fund provides broad international exposure across developed and emerging markets.
VEU tracks the FTSE All-World ex US Index, providing exposure to large and mid-cap stocks in both developed and emerging markets outside the United States. The fund holds approximately 3,900 stocks across 50+ countries.
This fund competes directly with VXUS as a one-fund international solution, with slightly different index methodologies and holdings. Both provide comprehensive ex-US exposure with minimal cost.
With $50.6 billion in assets, a 2.75% dividend yield, and 0.04% expense ratio, VEU is highly attractive for buy-and-hold international investors. The fund’s size and liquidity support easy trading with tight bid-ask spreads.
Top 10 Holdings:
- TSMC (Taiwan Semiconductor) – 2.83%
- Nestle SA – 1.62%
- ASML Holding NV – 1.37%
- Samsung Electronics Co Ltd – 1.32%
- Novo Nordisk A/S – 1.18%
- Shell PLC – 1.07%
- Tencent Holdings Ltd – 1.06%
- AstraZeneca PLC – 0.92%
- Roche Holding AG – 0.84%
- LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton – 0.81%
Best Vanguard ETF #16: Vanguard Large-Cap ETF (VV)
Assets Under Management: $45.1 billion
Dividend Yield: 1.12%
Expense Ratio: 0.04%
Number of Holdings: 610
The Vanguard Large-Cap ETF provides broad large-cap exposure across growth and value styles.
VV tracks the CRSP US Large Cap Index, holding approximately 610 large-cap stocks representing roughly 85% of total U.S. market capitalization. The fund excludes small and mid-cap stocks for pure large-cap exposure.
Large-cap stocks offer stability, liquidity, and quality compared to smaller companies. VV provides diversified large-cap coverage without the style bias of growth or value funds.
With $45.1 billion in assets, a 0.04% expense ratio, and 1.12% dividend yield, VV offers cost-effective large-cap exposure. The fund serves as a core U.S. equity holding for many portfolios.
Top 10 Holdings:
- Apple Inc. (AAPL) – 7.04%
- NVIDIA Corporation (NVDA) – 6.73%
- Microsoft Corporation (MSFT) – 6.51%
- Amazon.com Inc. (AMZN) – 3.96%
- Meta Platforms Inc. (META) – 2.82%
- Alphabet Inc. Class A (GOOGL) – 2.41%
- Broadcom Inc. (AVGO) – 2.21%
- Tesla Inc. (TSLA) – 2.20%
- Alphabet Inc. Class C (GOOG) – 2.00%
- Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (BRK.B) – 1.75%
Best Vanguard ETF #17: Vanguard Russell 1000 Growth ETF (VONG)
Assets Under Management: $34.6 billion
Dividend Yield: 0.47%
Expense Ratio: 0.07%
Number of Holdings: 451
The Vanguard Russell 1000 Growth ETF tracks the Russell 1000 Growth Index for broad growth exposure.
VONG provides exposure to growth stocks within the Russell 1000 Index, holding approximately 450 large-cap growth companies. The fund offers broad growth coverage across sectors and industries following the widely-used Russell methodology.
The Russell 1000 Growth Index is frequently used as a benchmark for growth-oriented portfolios. VONG provides low-cost access to this popular growth index.
With $34.6 billion in assets and a 0.07% expense ratio, VONG offers exceptional value for Russell index exposure. The 0.47% dividend yield is typical for growth-focused funds.
Top 10 Holdings:
- Apple Inc. (AAPL) – 11.89%
- NVIDIA Corporation (NVDA) – 11.60%
- Microsoft Corporation (MSFT) – 10.73%
- Amazon.com Inc. (AMZN) – 6.31%
- Meta Platforms Inc. (META) – 4.77%
- Alphabet Inc. Class A (GOOGL) – 4.05%
- Broadcom Inc. (AVGO) – 3.72%
- Alphabet Inc. Class C (GOOG) – 3.46%
- Tesla Inc. (TSLA) – 3.42%
- Eli Lilly and Company (LLY) – 2.25%
Best Vanguard ETF #18: Vanguard Real Estate ETF (VNQ)
Assets Under Management: $33.1 billion
Dividend Yield: 3.94%
Expense Ratio: 0.13%
Number of Holdings: 166
The Vanguard Real Estate ETF provides exposure to U.S. real estate investment trusts across all property types.
VNQ tracks the MSCI US Investable Market Real Estate 25/50 Index, holding approximately 165 REITs including residential, retail, office, industrial, healthcare, and specialty property types. The fund provides diversified real estate exposure.
REITs must distribute 90% of taxable income to shareholders, resulting in above-average dividend yields. VNQ offers real estate diversification without direct property ownership responsibilities.
With $33.1 billion in assets and a 3.94% dividend yield, VNQ is the dominant U.S. REIT ETF. The 0.13% expense ratio is higher than Vanguard’s stock funds but competitive for real estate exposure.
Top 10 Holdings:
- Prologis Inc – 9.58%
- American Tower Corp – 6.19%
- Equinix Inc – 5.33%
- Realty Income Corp – 4.34%
- Simon Property Group Inc – 3.73%
- Crown Castle Inc – 3.62%
- Welltower Inc – 3.27%
- Digital Realty Trust Inc – 2.85%
- Public Storage – 2.75%
- Extra Space Storage Inc – 2.26%
Best Vanguard ETF #19: Vanguard Mega Cap Growth ETF (MGK)
Assets Under Management: $31.7 billion
Dividend Yield: 0.39%
Expense Ratio: 0.07%
Number of Holdings: 70
The Vanguard Mega Cap Growth ETF concentrates on the largest growth companies in the market.
MGK tracks the CRSP US Mega Cap Growth Index, focusing on mega-cap stocks with growth characteristics. The fund holds approximately 70 stocks representing the largest, fastest-growing companies in the U.S. market.
This concentrated approach provides exposure to dominant market leaders including technology giants, innovative healthcare companies, and consumer discretionary leaders. The mega-cap focus reduces volatility compared to broader growth indexes.
With $31.7 billion in assets and a 0.07% expense ratio, MGK offers concentrated mega-cap growth exposure. The 0.39% dividend yield is minimal as mega-cap growth companies prioritize reinvestment over dividends.
Top 10 Holdings:
- Apple Inc. (AAPL) – 16.25%
- NVIDIA Corporation (NVDA) – 14.16%
- Microsoft Corporation (MSFT) – 14.09%
- Amazon.com Inc. (AMZN) – 8.64%
- Meta Platforms Inc. (META) – 5.81%
- Alphabet Inc. Class A (GOOGL) – 5.03%
- Broadcom Inc. (AVGO) – 4.80%
- Tesla Inc. (TSLA) – 4.74%
- Alphabet Inc. Class C (GOOG) – 4.29%
- Eli Lilly and Company (LLY) – 3.08%
Best Vanguard ETF #20: Vanguard Small Cap Value ETF (VBR)
Assets Under Management: $30.0 billion
Dividend Yield: 2.05%
Expense Ratio: 0.07%
Number of Holdings: 858
The Vanguard Small Cap Value ETF focuses on small-cap stocks with value characteristics.
VBR tracks the CRSP US Small Cap Value Index, holding approximately 860 small-cap value stocks. The fund combines the higher return potential of small-caps with the value investing approach.
Small-cap value historically offers the highest long-term returns among style categories but comes with elevated volatility. VBR provides diversified exposure to this historically strong-performing segment.
With $30.0 billion in assets, a 0.07% expense ratio, and 2.05% dividend yield, VBR offers small-cap value exposure at minimal cost. The fund appeals to investors seeking both growth and income from smaller companies.
Top 10 Holdings:
- BOK Financial Corp – 0.71%
- CACI International Inc Class A – 0.64%
- EMCOR Group Inc – 0.61%
- Mueller Industries Inc – 0.59%
- Sprouts Farmers Market Inc – 0.58%
- Comfort Systems USA Inc – 0.57%
- SouthState Corp – 0.56%
- TopBuild Corp – 0.53%
- Wintrust Financial Corp – 0.53%
- Carlisle Companies Inc – 0.52%
Best Vanguard ETF #21: Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF (VGK)
Assets Under Management: $27.4 billion
Dividend Yield: 2.94%
Expense Ratio: 0.06%
Number of Holdings: 1,317
The Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF provides concentrated exposure to European stock markets.
VGK tracks the FTSE Developed Europe All Cap Index, providing broad exposure to stocks in European developed markets including the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Switzerland, and other Western European nations. The fund holds over 1,300 stocks across all market capitalizations.
European markets offer geographic diversification beyond U.S. exposure with developed market stability. VGK’s diversification across major European economies reduces single-country risk.
With $27.4 billion in assets, a 0.06% expense ratio, and 2.94% dividend yield, VGK offers cost-effective European equity exposure. The fund appeals to investors seeking geographic diversification in developed markets.
Top 10 Holdings:
- Novo Nordisk A/S – 3.68%
- ASML Holding NV – 3.37%
- Nestle SA – 3.01%
- Shell PLC – 2.77%
- AstraZeneca PLC – 2.25%
- Roche Holding AG – 2.06%
- LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton – 2.01%
- SAP SE – 1.97%
- Novartis AG – 1.67%
- TotalEnergies SE – 1.41%
Best Vanguard ETF #22: Vanguard Extended Market ETF (VXF)
Assets Under Management: $23.2 billion
Dividend Yield: 1.15%
Expense Ratio: 0.05%
Number of Holdings: 3,058
The Vanguard Extended Market ETF covers small and mid-cap stocks excluded from the S&P 500.
VXF tracks the S&P Completion Index, holding approximately 3,000 small and mid-cap stocks that complement S&P 500 exposure. Combined with an S&P 500 fund, VXF creates total market coverage.
This fund fills the gap between S&P 500 funds and total market exposure, providing small and mid-cap exposure for investors holding VOO or similar large-cap funds. The completion approach optimizes portfolio construction.
With $23.2 billion in assets, a 0.05% expense ratio, and 1.15% dividend yield, VXF efficiently complements large-cap holdings. Investors combine VXF with VOO to essentially replicate VTI’s total market exposure.
Top 10 Holdings:
- MPLX LP – 0.59%
- Constellation Energy Corp – 0.54%
- CBRE Group Inc Class A – 0.53%
- First Solar Inc – 0.48%
- Targa Resources Corp – 0.48%
- Vistra Corp – 0.48%
- Apollo Global Management Inc – 0.47%
- Liberty Media Corp-Liberty Formula One Class C – 0.46%
- TransDigm Group Inc – 0.46%
- Enterprise Products Partners LP – 0.45%
Best Vanguard ETF #23: Vanguard S&P 500 Growth ETF (VOOG)
Assets Under Management: $20.6 billion
Dividend Yield: 0.50%
Expense Ratio: 0.07%
Number of Holdings: 234
The Vanguard S&P 500 Growth ETF focuses on growth stocks within the S&P 500 index.
VOOG tracks the S&P 500 Growth Index, holding approximately 230 stocks classified as growth companies based on sales growth, earnings growth, and momentum factors. The fund concentrates on S&P 500 companies expected to grow faster than the market.
Growth stocks within the S&P 500 tend to outperform during economic expansions but can underperform during market downturns. VOOG provides pure growth exposure limited to large-cap S&P 500 constituents.
With $20.6 billion in assets and a 0.07% expense ratio, VOOG offers S&P 500 growth exposure at minimal cost. The 0.50% dividend yield reflects growth companies’ preference for reinvesting earnings.
Top 10 Holdings:
- Apple Inc. (AAPL) – 13.05%
- NVIDIA Corporation (NVDA) – 11.23%
- Microsoft Corporation (MSFT) – 11.14%
- Amazon.com Inc. (AMZN) – 6.87%
- Meta Platforms Inc. (META) – 4.59%
- Alphabet Inc. Class A (GOOGL) – 4.10%
- Broadcom Inc. (AVGO) – 4.02%
- Tesla Inc. (TSLA) – 3.82%
- Alphabet Inc. Class C (GOOG) – 3.49%
- Eli Lilly and Company (LLY) – 2.44%
Best Vanguard ETF #24: Vanguard Small-Cap Growth ETF (VBK)
Assets Under Management: $19.7 billion
Dividend Yield: 0.58%
Expense Ratio: 0.07%
Number of Holdings: 611
The Vanguard Small-Cap Growth ETF focuses on small-cap companies with growth characteristics.
VBK tracks the CRSP US Small Cap Growth Index, holding approximately 610 small-cap growth stocks. The fund combines small-cap exposure with growth investing for maximum growth potential.
Small-cap growth stocks offer the highest growth potential but come with significant volatility and risk. VBK appeals to aggressive growth investors willing to accept substantial price fluctuations.
With $19.7 billion in assets and a 0.07% expense ratio, VBK provides small-cap growth exposure efficiently. The minimal 0.58% dividend yield reflects growth companies’ reinvestment focus.
Top 10 Holdings:
- Insmed Inc – 0.84%
- Freshpet Inc – 0.79%
- ATI Inc – 0.77%
- Lattice Semiconductor Corp – 0.72%
- Wingstop Inc – 0.71%
- Interactive Brokers Group Inc Class A – 0.70%
- Construction Partners Inc Class A – 0.69%
- Certara Inc – 0.66%
- Onto Innovation Inc – 0.65%
- AAON Inc – 0.64%
Best Vanguard ETF #25: Vanguard Mid-Cap Value ETF (VOE)
Assets Under Management: $18.9 billion
Dividend Yield: 2.20%
Expense Ratio: 0.07%
Number of Holdings: 194
The Vanguard Mid-Cap Value ETF focuses on mid-cap stocks with value characteristics.
VOE tracks the CRSP US Mid Cap Value Index, holding approximately 190 mid-cap value stocks. The fund combines mid-cap exposure with value investing for attractive risk-adjusted returns.
Mid-cap value stocks historically offer strong returns with moderate volatility, occupying a sweet spot between large and small-cap value. VOE provides targeted mid-cap value exposure.
With $18.9 billion in assets, a 0.07% expense ratio, and 2.20% dividend yield, VOE offers mid-cap value investing at minimal cost. The fund appeals to investors seeking value exposure with mid-cap growth potential.
Top 10 Holdings:
- MPLX LP – 1.59%
- Targa Resources Corp – 1.40%
- Enterprise Products Partners LP – 1.23%
- Capital One Financial Corp – 1.22%
- Energy Transfer LP – 1.13%
- Williams Companies Inc – 1.07%
- ONEOK Inc – 1.01%
- Discover Financial Services – 0.97%
- Huntington Bancshares Inc – 0.91%
- Ally Financial Inc – 0.85%
Frequently Asked Questions About Vanguard ETFs
How do I invest in Vanguard ETFs?
Vanguard ETFs can be purchased through any brokerage account just like individual stocks.
Open a brokerage account at Vanguard or another broker, fund your account, then search for the ETF ticker symbol and place your order. ETFs trade throughout the day at market prices.
For investors using Vanguard as their broker, ETF trades are commission-free. Most other major brokers also offer commission-free ETF trading.
What is the minimum investment for Vanguard ETFs?
The minimum investment for Vanguard ETFs is the price of one share.
Unlike Vanguard mutual funds that require $1,000-3,000 minimums, ETFs have no minimum beyond the current share price. This makes ETFs accessible for investors starting with small amounts.
For example, VTI trading around $270 per share requires just $270 to purchase one share, providing instant access to the entire U.S. stock market.
Do Vanguard ETFs pay dividends?
Yes, Vanguard ETFs pay dividends based on the dividends received from their underlying holdings.
ETFs collect dividends from stocks they own and distribute them to ETF shareholders, typically on a quarterly basis. Dividend yields vary from under 0.50% for growth funds to over 4% for bond and high-yield equity funds.
Investors can choose to receive dividend distributions as cash or automatically reinvest them to purchase additional shares through dividend reinvestment plans (DRIPs).
Are Vanguard ETFs better than mutual funds?
Vanguard ETFs and mutual funds each offer advantages depending on investor needs and preferences.
ETFs provide intraday trading, lower minimums, slightly better tax efficiency, and ability to trade through any broker. Mutual funds offer automatic investments, fractional shares, and avoid intraday price volatility.
For most investors, the differences are minimal. Vanguard’s unique structure ensures that ETFs and Admiral share mutual funds have identical expense ratios and underlying holdings.
How are Vanguard ETFs taxed?
Vanguard ETFs are taxed similarly to individual stocks with some beneficial differences.
Dividend distributions are taxed as either qualified dividends (15-20% tax rate) or ordinary income depending on the holding period and dividend type. Capital gains from selling ETF shares are taxed as short-term (ordinary rates) or long-term (0-20%) based on holding period.
ETFs offer superior tax efficiency compared to mutual funds because their structure minimizes capital gains distributions. Most Vanguard equity ETFs distribute little to no capital gains annually.
Can I hold Vanguard ETFs in an IRA?
Yes, Vanguard ETFs can be held in IRAs, 401(k)s, and other tax-advantaged retirement accounts.
Holding ETFs in retirement accounts provides tax-deferred growth for traditional accounts or tax-free growth for Roth accounts. Dividends and capital gains generate no current tax liability when held in these accounts.
Many investors use Vanguard ETFs as core holdings in their retirement portfolios, taking advantage of low costs and tax efficiency within tax-sheltered accounts.
What happens to Vanguard ETF dividends?
Vanguard ETF dividends can be taken as cash distributions or automatically reinvested to purchase additional shares.
Cash dividends are deposited into your brokerage account on the payment date, providing income you can spend or invest elsewhere. Automatic reinvestment uses dividends to buy more ETF shares without trading commissions.
Most investors choose automatic reinvestment for long-term accumulation, letting dividends compound over time. Cash distributions make sense for retirees or investors needing current income.
How often do Vanguard ETFs pay dividends?
Most Vanguard stock ETFs pay dividends quarterly, while bond ETFs typically pay monthly.
Equity ETFs collect dividends from underlying stocks throughout the quarter and distribute them to shareholders once quarterly. Bond ETFs collect interest monthly and pass it through to shareholders monthly.
Dividend payment schedules are available on Vanguard’s website and in ETF prospectuses. Regular payment schedules help investors plan for income streams.
Conclusion
Vanguard ETFs represent the gold standard in low-cost index investing, providing access to diversified portfolios with industry-leading expense ratios.
The 35 Vanguard ETFs ranked by assets under management include flagship funds like VOO (S&P 500), VTI (Total Stock Market), and VEA (Developed Markets) that serve as core holdings for millions of investors worldwide. These funds offer comprehensive market coverage at costs as low as 0.03% annually.
Understanding key investment terms like expense ratios, dividend yields, and market capitalization helps investors make informed decisions when selecting Vanguard ETFs. The combination of low costs, tax efficiency, and broad diversification makes Vanguard ETFs ideal building blocks for long-term wealth creation.
Investors can construct complete portfolios using only Vanguard ETFs, from simple three-fund portfolios to sophisticated multi-asset strategies. Whether seeking growth, value, dividend income, or geographic diversification, Vanguard’s extensive ETF lineup provides cost-effective solutions.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment advice. ETF performance, holdings, and characteristics change over time. Always conduct your own research and consult with a financial advisor before making investment decisions.
