VGHAX vs VV
Vanguard Health Care Fund Admiral Shares vs Vanguard Morningstar Large-Cap ETF
Quick Verdict
VV has a lower expense ratio. VV delivered stronger 1-year returns. VV offers more diversification with 437 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | VGHAX | VV | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.27% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $32.8B | $52.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 6.45% | 1.03% | |
| Holdings | 109 | 437 | |
| YTD Return | +2.11% | +14.15% | |
| 1Y Return | +21.47% | +21.53% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | -0.69% | +22.44% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -2.76% | +12.89% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 15.3% | 14.8% | |
| Max Drawdown | -33.6% | -56.0% | |
| Fund Family | Vanguard (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 12, 2001 | Jan 27, 2004 |
VGHAX vs VV Performance
Vanguard Health Care Fund Admiral Shares (VGHAX) is a mutual fund from Vanguard (US) and Vanguard Morningstar Large-Cap ETF (VV) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year VGHAX returned +21.47% while VV returned +21.53%. Year to date, VGHAX is up 2.11% versus a gain of 14.15% for VV.
Over three years, VGHAX compounded at -0.69% per year against +22.44% for VV; over five years the annualized figures are -2.76% and +12.89% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, VV has the edge at +9.54% annualized vs -2.76%. 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 14.8% for VV. 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 -56.0% for VV. 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 0.57. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
VGHAX charges 0.27% per year while VV 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 1.03% for VV.
Holdings Overlap
VGHAX and VV share 26 holdings out of 491 unique holdings combined, representing a 7.2% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, VGHAX or VV?
VGHAX has an expense ratio of 0.27% while VV charges 0.03%. VV is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $24 per year of difference.
Which performed better, VGHAX or VV?
Over the past year VGHAX returned +21.47% vs +21.53% for VV, so VV leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), VGHAX annualized -2.76% vs +9.54% for VV. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, VGHAX or VV?
VGHAX has been the more volatile fund at 15.3% annualized versus 14.8% for VV. Worst drawdown: VGHAX -33.6% vs VV -56.0%.
Should I hold both VGHAX and VV?
VGHAX and VV have a monthly-return correlation of 0.57, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between VGHAX and VV?
VGHAX and VV share 26 common holdings with a 7.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 491 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, VGHAX or VV?
VGHAX yields 6.45% while VV yields 1.03%, so VGHAX currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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