VGK vs VIPIX
Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF vs Vanguard Inflation Protected Securities Fund Insti Shs
Quick Verdict
VGK has a lower expense ratio. VGK delivered stronger 1-year returns. VGK offers more diversification with 1,251 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | VGK | VIPIX | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.06% | 0.07% | |
| AUM | $30.5B | $12.4B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.82% | 5.21% | |
| Holdings | 1,251 | 63 | |
| YTD Return | +11.24% | -0.86% | |
| 1Y Return | +20.91% | -3.13% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +18.67% | -0.36% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +9.28% | -4.80% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 18.5% | 6.7% | |
| Max Drawdown | -67.3% | -24.5% | |
| Fund Family | Vanguard (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Fixed Income | |
| Inception | Mar 4, 2005 | Dec 12, 2003 |
VGK vs VIPIX Performance
Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF (VGK) is a ETF from Vanguard (US) and Vanguard Inflation Protected Securities Fund Insti Shs (VIPIX) is a mutual fund from Vanguard (US). Over the past year VGK returned +20.91% while VIPIX returned -3.13%. Year to date, VGK is up 11.24% versus a loss of 0.86% for VIPIX.
Over three years, VGK compounded at +18.67% per year against -0.36% for VIPIX; over five years the annualized figures are +9.28% and -4.80% respectively. Across the full 5-year window we track, VGK has the edge at +3.69% annualized vs -4.80%. 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 6.7% for VIPIX. 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 -24.5% for VIPIX. 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 0.64. They move independently enough that combining them can meaningfully diversify a portfolio.
Fees and Cost Over Time
VGK charges 0.06% per year while VIPIX charges 0.07%. On a $10,000 position that is $6 vs $7 annually, a gap of $1 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, VGK currently yields 2.82% against 5.21% for VIPIX.
Holdings Overlap
VGK and VIPIX share 0 holdings out of 1232 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 VIPIX?
VGK has an expense ratio of 0.06% while VIPIX charges 0.07%. VGK is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $1 per year of difference.
Which performed better, VGK or VIPIX?
Over the past year VGK returned +20.91% vs -3.13% for VIPIX, so VGK leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (5 years), VGK annualized +3.69% vs -4.80% for VIPIX. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, VGK or VIPIX?
VGK has been the more volatile fund at 18.5% annualized versus 6.7% for VIPIX. Worst drawdown: VGK -67.3% vs VIPIX -24.5%.
Should I hold both VGK and VIPIX?
VGK and VIPIX have a monthly-return correlation of 0.64, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between VGK and VIPIX?
VGK and VIPIX share 0 common holdings with a 0.0% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 1232 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, VGK or VIPIX?
VGK yields 2.82% while VIPIX yields 5.21%, so VIPIX currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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