VGK vs VIITX
Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF vs Vanguard Institutional Intermediate Term Bond Fund Institutional Plus Class
Quick Verdict
VIITX has a lower expense ratio. VGK delivered stronger 1-year returns. VIITX offers more diversification with 2,599 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | VGK | VIITX | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.06% | 0.02% | |
| AUM | $30.5B | - | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.82% | 4.59% | |
| Holdings | 1,251 | 2,599 | |
| YTD Return | +11.24% | -1.85% | |
| 1Y Return | +20.91% | -1.35% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +18.67% | +0.64% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +9.28% | -2.29% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 18.5% | 4.2% | |
| Max Drawdown | -67.3% | -15.0% | |
| Fund Family | Vanguard (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Fixed Income | |
| Inception | Mar 4, 2005 | Dec 1, 1997 |
VGK vs VIITX Performance
Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF (VGK) is a ETF from Vanguard (US) and Vanguard Institutional Intermediate Term Bond Fund Institutional Plus Class (VIITX) is a mutual fund from Vanguard (US). Over the past year VGK returned +20.91% while VIITX returned -1.35%. Year to date, VGK is up 11.24% versus a loss of 1.85% for VIITX.
Over three years, VGK compounded at +18.67% per year against +0.64% for VIITX; over five years the annualized figures are +9.28% and -2.29% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, VGK has the edge at +3.69% annualized vs -2.29%. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Risk: Volatility and Drawdowns
VGK has been the more volatile fund, with annualized monthly volatility of 18.5% compared with 4.2% for VIITX. 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 -67.3% for VGK and -15.0% for VIITX. 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 0.69. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
VGK charges 0.06% per year while VIITX charges 0.02%. On a $10,000 position that is $6 vs $2 annually, a gap of $4 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, VGK currently yields 2.82% against 4.59% for VIITX.
Holdings Overlap
VGK and VIITX share 0 holdings out of 2362 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, VGK or VIITX?
VGK has an expense ratio of 0.06% while VIITX charges 0.02%. VIITX is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $4 per year of difference.
Which performed better, VGK or VIITX?
Over the past year VGK returned +20.91% vs -1.35% for VIITX, so VGK leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), VGK annualized +3.69% vs -2.29% for VIITX. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, VGK or VIITX?
VGK has been the more volatile fund at 18.5% annualized versus 4.2% for VIITX. Worst drawdown: VGK -67.3% vs VIITX -15.0%.
Should I hold both VGK and VIITX?
VGK and VIITX have a monthly-return correlation of 0.69, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between VGK and VIITX?
VGK and VIITX share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 2362 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, VGK or VIITX?
VGK yields 2.82% while VIITX yields 4.59%, so VIITX currently pays the higher dividend yield.
Popular Fund Comparisons
Get Full ETF Analytics
Access complete holdings data, overlap analysis, screener tools, and more with FundXLS.