VGIT vs VNQ
VGIT vs VNQ
Vanguard Intermediate Term Treasury ETF vs Vanguard Real Estate ETF
Quick Verdict
VGIT has a lower expense ratio. VNQ delivered stronger 1-year returns. VNQ offers more diversification with 144 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | VGIT | VNQ | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.03% | 0.13% | |
| AUM | $42.1B | $38.2B | |
| Dividend Yield | 3.84% | 3.52% | |
| Holdings | 106 | 144 | |
| YTD Return | -0.62% | +13.37% | |
| 1Y Return | +1.32% | +13.85% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +3.60% | +9.90% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | -0.12% | +2.33% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 4.3% | 21.4% | |
| Max Drawdown | -17.2% | -75.8% | |
| Fund Family | Vanguard (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Fixed Income | Equity | |
| Inception | Nov 19, 2009 | Sep 23, 2004 |
VGIT vs VNQ Performance
Vanguard Intermediate Term Treasury ETF (VGIT) is a ETF from Vanguard (US) and Vanguard Real Estate ETF (VNQ) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year VGIT returned +1.32% while VNQ returned +13.85%. Year to date, VGIT is down 0.62% versus a gain of 13.37% for VNQ.
Over three years, VGIT compounded at +3.60% per year against +9.90% for VNQ; over five years the annualized figures are -0.12% and +2.33% respectively. Across the full 17-year window we track, VNQ has the edge at +4.13% annualized vs +0.75%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VNQ has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 21.4% compared with 4.3% for VGIT. 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 -17.2% for VGIT and -75.8% for VNQ. 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 0.24. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
VGIT charges 0.03% per year while VNQ charges 0.13%. On a $10,000 position that is $3 vs $13 annually, a gap of $10 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, VGIT currently yields 3.84% against 3.52% for VNQ.
Holdings Overlap
VGIT and VNQ share 0 holdings out of 228 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, VGIT or VNQ?
VGIT has an expense ratio of 0.03% while VNQ charges 0.13%. VGIT is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $10 per year of difference.
Which performed better, VGIT or VNQ?
Over the past year VGIT returned +1.32% vs +13.85% for VNQ, so VNQ leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (17 years), VGIT annualized +0.75% vs +4.13% for VNQ. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, VGIT or VNQ?
VNQ has been the more volatile fund at 21.4% annualized versus 4.3% for VGIT. Worst drawdown: VGIT -17.2% vs VNQ -75.8%.
Should I hold both VGIT and VNQ?
VGIT and VNQ have a monthly-return correlation of 0.24, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between VGIT and VNQ?
VGIT and VNQ share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 228 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, VGIT or VNQ?
VGIT yields 3.84% while VNQ yields 3.52%, so VGIT currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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