VGHAX vs VTV
Vanguard Health Care Fund Admiral Shares vs Vanguard Morningstar Value ETF
Quick Verdict
VTV has a lower expense ratio. VTV delivered stronger 1-year returns. VTV offers more diversification with 311 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | VGHAX | VTV | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.27% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $32.8B | $187.8B | |
| Dividend Yield | 6.45% | 1.85% | |
| Holdings | 109 | 311 | |
| YTD Return | +7.13% | +18.02% | |
| 1Y Return | +24.36% | +26.57% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +1.32% | +19.29% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -2.07% | +12.56% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.7% | 14.5% | |
| Max Drawdown | -33.6% | -61.3% | |
| Fund Family | Vanguard (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 12, 2001 | Jan 26, 2004 |
VGHAX vs VTV Performance
Vanguard Health Care Fund Admiral Shares (VGHAX) is a mutual fund from Vanguard (US) and Vanguard Morningstar Value ETF (VTV) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year VGHAX returned +24.36% while VTV returned +26.57%. Year to date, VGHAX is up 7.13% versus a gain of 18.02% for VTV.
Over three years, VGHAX compounded at +1.32% per year against +19.29% for VTV; over five years the annualized figures are -2.07% and +12.56% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, VTV has the edge at +7.59% annualized vs -2.07%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VGHAX has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 15.7% compared with 14.5% for VTV. 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 -33.6% for VGHAX and -61.3% for VTV. 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 0.67. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
VGHAX charges 0.27% per year while VTV charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $27 vs $3 annually, a gap of $24 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, VGHAX currently yields 6.45% against 1.85% for VTV.
Holdings Overlap
VGHAX and VTV share 21 holdings out of 373 unique holdings combined, representing a 11.3% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, VGHAX or VTV?
VGHAX has an expense ratio of 0.27% while VTV charges 0.03%. VTV is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $24 per year of difference.
Which performed better, VGHAX or VTV?
Over the past year VGHAX returned +24.36% vs +26.57% for VTV, so VTV leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), VGHAX annualized -2.07% vs +7.59% for VTV. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, VGHAX or VTV?
VGHAX has been the more volatile fund at 15.7% annualized versus 14.5% for VTV. Worst drawdown: VGHAX -33.6% vs VTV -61.3%.
Should I hold both VGHAX and VTV?
VGHAX and VTV have a monthly-return correlation of 0.67, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between VGHAX and VTV?
VGHAX and VTV share 21 common holdings with a 11.3% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 373 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, VGHAX or VTV?
VGHAX yields 6.45% while VTV yields 1.85%, so VGHAX currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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