BSV vs VOE
Vanguard Short-Term Bond ETF vs Vanguard Mid-Cap Value ETF
Quick Verdict
BSV has a lower expense ratio. VOE delivered stronger 1-year returns. BSV offers more diversification with 2787 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | BSV | VOE | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.03% | 0.05% | |
| AUM | $44.8B | $22.9B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.98% | 2.31% | |
| Holdings | 3,125 | 177 | |
| YTD Return | +0.28% | +17.20% | |
| 1Y Return | +2.28% | +26.76% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +4.37% | +16.45% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +1.58% | +10.06% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 2.4% | 17.6% | |
| Max Drawdown | -9.0% | -63.4% | |
| Fund Family | Vanguard (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Apr 3, 2007 | Aug 17, 2006 |
BSV vs VOE Performance
Vanguard Short-Term Bond ETF (BSV) is a ETF from Vanguard (US) and Vanguard Mid-Cap Value ETF (VOE) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year BSV returned +2.28% while VOE returned +26.76%. Year to date, BSV is up 0.28% versus a gain of 17.20% for VOE.
Over three years, BSV compounded at +4.37% per year against +16.45% for VOE; over five years the annualized figures are +1.58% and +10.06% respectively. Across the full 19-year window we track, VOE has the edge at +7.96% annualized vs +0.91%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VOE has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 17.6% 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 -63.4% for VOE. 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 0.14. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
BSV charges 0.03% per year while VOE charges 0.05%. On a $10,000 position that is $3 vs $5 annually, a gap of $2 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, BSV currently yields 3.98% against 2.31% for VOE.
Holdings Overlap
BSV and VOE share 4 holdings out of 2952 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.0% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Top Shared Holdings
| Stock | Weight in BSV | Weight in VOE | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| AFL | 0.01% | 0.93% | 0.92% |
| KDP | 0.01% | 0.73% | 0.72% |
| KVUE | 0.01% | 0.63% | 0.62% |
| LEN 4.75 11/29/27 | Pro | Pro | Pro |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, BSV or VOE?
BSV has an expense ratio of 0.03% while VOE charges 0.05%. BSV is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $2 per year of difference.
Which performed better, BSV or VOE?
Over the past year BSV returned +2.28% vs +26.76% for VOE, so VOE leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (19 years), BSV annualized +0.91% vs +7.96% for VOE. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, BSV or VOE?
VOE has been the more volatile fund at 17.6% annualized versus 2.4% for BSV. Worst drawdown: BSV -9.0% vs VOE -63.4%.
Should I hold both BSV and VOE?
BSV and VOE have a monthly-return correlation of 0.14, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between BSV and VOE?
BSV and VOE share 4 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2952 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, BSV or VOE?
BSV yields 3.98% while VOE yields 2.31%, so BSV currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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