VGK vs VV
Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF vs Vanguard Large-Cap ETF
Quick Verdict
VV has a lower expense ratio. VGK delivered stronger 1-year returns. VGK offers more diversification with 958 holdings.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | VGK | VV | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expense Ratio | 0.06% | 0.03% | |
| AUM | $30.0B | $52.5B | |
| Dividend Yield | 2.94% | 1.25% | |
| Holdings | 1,251 | 446 | |
| YTD Return | +11.11% | +13.63% | |
| 1Y Return | +23.13% | +22.60% | |
| 3Y Return (annualized) | +18.04% | +22.03% | |
| 5Y Return (annualized) | +9.43% | +12.97% | |
| Volatility (annualized) | 18.5% | 14.8% | |
| Max Drawdown | -67.3% | -56.0% | |
| Fund Family | Vanguard (US) | Vanguard (US) | |
| Category | Equity | Equity | |
| Inception | Mar 4, 2005 | Jan 27, 2004 |
VGK vs VV Performance
Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF (VGK) is a ETF from Vanguard (US) and Vanguard Large-Cap ETF (VV) is a ETF from Vanguard (US). Over the past year VGK returned +23.13% while VV returned +22.60%. Year to date, VGK is up 11.11% versus a gain of 13.63% for VV.
Over three years, VGK compounded at +18.04% per year against +22.03% for VV; over five years the annualized figures are +9.43% and +12.97% respectively. Across the full 21-year window we track, VV has the edge at +9.52% 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 14.8% for VV. 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 -56.0% for VV. 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 0.84. They usually move together, but the gap leaves some room for diversification.
Fees and Cost Over Time
VGK charges 0.06% per year while VV 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 1.25% for VV.
Holdings Overlap
VGK and VV share 3 holdings out of 1386 unique holdings combined, representing a 0.2% weight overlap.
Moderate overlap means holding both could provide meaningful diversification benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, VGK or VV?
VGK has an expense ratio of 0.06% while VV charges 0.03%. VV is the cheaper option. On a $10,000 investment, that is $3 per year of difference.
Which performed better, VGK or VV?
Over the past year VGK returned +23.13% vs +22.60% for VV, so VGK leads on 1-year performance. Over the longest common window we track (21 years), VGK annualized +3.69% vs +9.52% for VV. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Which is riskier, VGK or VV?
VGK has been the more volatile fund at 18.5% annualized versus 14.8% for VV. Worst drawdown: VGK -67.3% vs VV -56.0%.
Should I hold both VGK and VV?
VGK and VV have a monthly-return correlation of 0.84, so combining them can provide real diversification depending on your allocation goals.
What is the holdings overlap between VGK and VV?
VGK and VV share 3 common holdings with a 0.2% weight overlap. Combined, they hold 1386 unique securities.
Which pays a higher dividend, VGK or VV?
VGK yields 2.94% while VV yields 1.25%, so VGK currently pays the higher dividend yield.
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