VGK vs VTV
Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF vs Vanguard Value ETF
Quick Verdict
VTV has a lower expense ratio. VTV delivered stronger 1-year returns. VGK offers more diversification with 958 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | VGK | VTV | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.06% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $30.0B | $186.1B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.94% | 2.29% | |
| Holdings | 1,251 | 311 | |
| YTD Return | +11.10% | +18.60% | |
| 1Y Return | +21.87% | +28.75% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +18.13% | +18.63% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +9.29% | +12.39% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 18.5% | 14.5% | |
| Max Drawdown | -67.3% | -61.3% | |
| Fund Family | Vanguard (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 4, 2005 | Jan 26, 2004 |
VGK vs VTV Performance
Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF (VGK) is a ETF from Vanguard (US) and Vanguard Value ETF (VTV) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year VGK returned +21.87% while VTV returned +28.75%. Year to date, VGK is up 11.10% versus a gain of 18.60% for VTV.
Over three years, VGK compounded at +18.13% per year against +18.63% for VTV; over five years the annualized figures are +9.29% and +12.39% respectively. Across the full 21-year window we track, VTV has the edge at +7.62% annualized vs +3.69%. 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 14.5% for VTV. 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 -61.3% for VTV. 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 0.85. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
VGK charges 0.06% per year while VTV charges 0.03%. On a $10,000 position that is $6 vs $3 annually, a gap of $3 per year that compounds over a long holding period. On income, VGK currently yields 2.94% against 2.29% for VTV.
Holdings Overlap
VGK and VTV share 3 holdings out of 1263 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.5% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, VGK or VTV?
VGK has an expense ratio of 0.06% while VTV charges 0.03%. VTV is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $3 per year of difference.
Which performed better, VGK or VTV?
Over the past year VGK returned +21.87% vs +28.75% for VTV, so VTV leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (21 years), VGK annualized +3.69% vs +7.62% for VTV. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, VGK or VTV?
VGK has been the more volatile fund at 18.5% annualized versus 14.5% for VTV. Worst drawdown: VGK -67.3% vs VTV -61.3%.
Should I hold both VGK and VTV?
VGK and VTV have a monthly-return correlation of 0.85, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between VGK and VTV?
VGK and VTV share 3 common holdings with a 0.5% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 1263 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, VGK or VTV?
VGK yields 2.94% while VTV yields 2.29%, so VGK currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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