BSV vs VGHAX
Vanguard Short-Term Bond ETF vs Vanguard Health Care Fund Admiral Shares
Quick Verdict
BSV has a lower expense ratio. VGHAX delivered stronger 1-year returns. BSV offers more diversification with 2787 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | BSV | VGHAX | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.03% | 0.32% | |
| AUM | $44.8B | $31.8B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.98% | 1.06% | |
| Holdings | 3,125 | 109 | |
| YTD Return | +0.42% | +2.40% | |
| 1Y Return | +2.36% | +25.63% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +4.47% | -0.60% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +1.60% | -2.58% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 2.4% | 15.3% | |
| Max Drawdown | -9.0% | -33.6% | |
| Fund Family | Vanguard (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 3, 2007 | Nov 12, 2001 |
BSV vs VGHAX Performance
Vanguard Short-Term Bond ETF (BSV) is a ETF from Vanguard (US) and Vanguard Health Care Fund Admiral Shares (VGHAX) is a mutual fund from Vanguard (US). Over the past year BSV returned +2.36% while VGHAX returned +25.63%. Year to date, BSV is up 0.42% versus a gain of 2.40% for VGHAX.
Over three years, BSV compounded at +4.47% per year against -0.60% for VGHAX; over five years the annualized figures are +1.60% and -2.58% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, BSV has the edge at +0.91% annualized vs -2.58%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VGHAX has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.3% compared with 2.4% for BSV. Lower volatility generally means a smoother ride, though it often comes with lower long-run returns.
The deepest peak-to-trough decline in our data was -9.0% for BSV and -33.6% for VGHAX. Drawdown depth is worth weighing if you expect to sell during market stress rather than ride it out.
The two funds' monthly returns correlate at 0.47. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
BSV charges 0.03% per year while VGHAX charges 0.32%. On a $10,000 position that is $3 vs $32 annually, a gap of $29 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, BSV currently yields 3.98% against 1.06% for VGHAX.
Holdings Overlap
BSV and VGHAX share 0 holdings out of 2873 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, BSV or VGHAX?
BSV has an expense ratio of 0.03% while VGHAX charges 0.32%. BSV is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $29 per year of difference.
Which performed better, BSV or VGHAX?
Over the past year BSV returned +2.36% vs +25.63% for VGHAX, so VGHAX leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), BSV annualized +0.91% vs -2.58% for VGHAX. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, BSV or VGHAX?
VGHAX has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 2.4% for BSV. Worst drawdown: BSV -9.0% vs VGHAX -33.6%.
Should I hold both BSV and VGHAX?
BSV and VGHAX have a monthly-return correlation of 0.47, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between BSV and VGHAX?
BSV and VGHAX share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2873 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, BSV or VGHAX?
BSV yields 3.98% while VGHAX yields 1.06%, so BSV currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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