VGK vs VONG
Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF vs Vanguard Russell 1000 Growth ETF
Quick Verdict
VGK delivered stronger 1-year returns. VGK offers more diversification with 1,251 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | VGK | VONG | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.06% | 0.06% | |
| AUM | $30.5B | $51.6B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.82% | 0.48% | |
| Holdings | 1,251 | 373 | |
| YTD Return | +10.81% | +3.62% | |
| 1Y Return | +19.44% | +11.38% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +18.94% | +22.29% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +9.55% | +12.29% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 18.5% | 15.9% | |
| Max Drawdown | -67.3% | -32.7% | |
| Fund Family | Vanguard (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 4, 2005 | Sep 20, 2010 |
VGK vs VONG Performance
Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF (VGK) is a ETF from Vanguard (US) and Vanguard Russell 1000 Growth ETF (VONG) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year VGK returned +19.44% while VONG returned +11.38%. Year to date, VGK is up 10.81% versus a gain of 3.62% for VONG.
Over three years, VGK compounded at +18.94% per year against +22.29% for VONG; over five years the annualized figures are +9.55% and +12.29% respectively. Across the full 16-year window we track, VONG has the edge at +15.60% annualized vs +3.67%. 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 15.9% for VONG. 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 -32.7% for VONG. 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 0.72. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
VGK charges 0.06% per year while VONG charges 0.06%. On a $10,000 position that is $6 vs $6 annually. On income, VGK currently yields 2.82% against 0.48% for VONG.
Holdings Overlap
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, VGK or VONG?
VGK has an expense ratio of 0.06% while VONG charges 0.06%. They cost the same. On a $10,000 investment, that is $0 per year of difference.
Which performed better, VGK or VONG?
Over the past year VGK returned +19.44% vs +11.38% for VONG, so VGK leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (16 years), VGK annualized +3.67% vs +15.60% for VONG. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, VGK or VONG?
VGK has been the more volatile fund at 18.5% annualized versus 15.9% for VONG. Worst drawdown: VGK -67.3% vs VONG -32.7%.
Should I hold both VGK and VONG?
VGK and VONG have a monthly-return correlation of 0.72, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between VGK and VONG?
VGK and VONG share 2 common holdings with a 0.1% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 1546 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, VGK or VONG?
VGK yields 2.82% while VONG yields 0.48%, so VGK currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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