VGS vs IVV Australia – Which ETF is Right for You?

Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) are an increasingly popular way for Australian investors to gain exposure to the global stock market. Two of the most popular ETFs in this category are the Vanguard MSCI Index International Shares ETF (VGS) and the iShares S&P 500 ETF (IVV). Both funds offer investors exposure to large-cap companies listed in developed markets around the world, but there are some key differences between the two. In this article, we’ll compare VGS vs IVV in Australia and help you decide which one is right for you.

Overview of VGS and IVV

VGS and IVV are both index-tracking ETFs that aim to replicate the performance of a particular stock market index. VGS tracks the MSCI World ex-Australia Index, which includes large- and mid-cap companies listed in developed markets around the world, excluding Australia. IVV tracks the S&P 500 Index, which includes 500 large-cap companies listed on US stock exchanges.

VGS is managed by Vanguard, a global investment management company with a reputation for low fees and passive investing. IVV is managed by iShares, which is owned by BlackRock, one of the largest asset management companies in the world.

Fees and Expenses

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing an ETF is its fees and expenses. These costs can significantly impact your investment returns over time. In general, Vanguard is known for its low-cost index funds and ETFs, and VGS is no exception. The management fee for VGS is 0.18% per annum, which is relatively low compared to other global equity ETFs. Additionally, VGS does not charge any performance fees.

IVV’s management fee is slightly higher, at 0.04% per annum. However, investors should be aware that this fee does not include other costs, such as transaction costs and bid-ask spreads, which can add up over time. As a result, the total cost of investing in IVV may be higher than the stated management fee.

In terms of trading costs, both VGS and IVV are highly liquid and can be easily bought and sold on the ASX. However, VGS may be subject to foreign exchange costs when buying and selling shares due to the fact that it is denominated in US dollars.

Diversification

Both VGS and IVV offer investors exposure to a diversified portfolio of large-cap companies in developed markets. However, there are some differences in the composition of the two ETFs. VGS includes companies from a broader range of countries than IVV, which is solely focused on US large-cap stocks. As a result, VGS may offer investors greater geographic diversification than IVV.

Additionally, VGS includes exposure to both developed and emerging markets, whereas IVV does not. This means that VGS may be more suitable for investors who are looking for a higher degree of diversification across regions and markets.

Performance

The historical performance of an ETF is not a guarantee of future returns, but it can be a useful indicator of how well the fund has performed in the past. Both VGS and IVV have delivered strong returns over the long term. However, there are some differences in their performance.

IVV has historically delivered higher returns than VGS, primarily due to the strong performance of US large-cap stocks in recent years. However, this may not be sustainable over the long term, and investors should be aware that past performance is not a guarantee of future returns.

Investment Philosophy

Another important factor to consider when choosing between VGS and IVV is their investment philosophy. Vanguard is known for its passive investment approach, which means that they aim to replicate the performance of a particular index rather than actively manage the fund. This approach is designed to keep costs low and provide investors with a low-cost way to gain exposure to the market.

On the other hand, iShares takes a more active approach to investing, which means that they may adjust their holdings in response to market conditions and trends. This approach can lead to higher fees and expenses, but it may also offer the potential for higher returns.

Which ETF is Right for You – VGS vs IVV?

Ultimately, the choice between VGS and IVV will depend on your individual investment goals and risk tolerance. If you are looking for a low-cost, diversified way to gain exposure to developed markets around the world, VGS may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you are willing to pay slightly higher fees for the potential for higher returns and are comfortable with a focus on US large-cap stocks, then IVV may be the better choice.

Additionally, it’s worth considering your existing portfolio and how VGS or IVV may fit into it. If you already have exposure to US large-cap stocks, then VGS may provide greater diversification. On the other hand, if you are already heavily invested in developed markets outside the US, then IVV may provide a complementary exposure to US large-cap stocks.

✅ Also Read:

• iShares Vs Vanguard Australia
• IOO Vs NDQ Etf Investing

Table of the differences between VGS and IVV Australia

Factor	VGS	IVV
Fund Provider	Vanguard	iShares
Fund Type	Global ex-US ETF	US Large-Cap ETF
Geographic Exposure	Developed markets (ex-US)	United States
Number of Holdings	1,587	508
Expense Ratio	0.18%	0.04%
Investment Philosophy	Passive	Passive
Index Tracked	FTSE Global All Cap ex US	S&P 500
Top Holdings	Apple, Microsoft, Amazon	Apple, Microsoft, Amazon
Sector Allocation	Technology, Financials	Technology, Healthcare, Consumer Discretionary
Performance (5-year annualized)	11.09%	17.88%

Note: The above data is current as of 2023 and is subject to change over time.

Conclusion

VGS and IVV are both excellent ETFs that offer investors a low-cost, diversified way to gain exposure to the global stock market. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your individual investment goals, risk tolerance, and existing portfolio. By considering factors such as fees, diversification, performance, and investment philosophy, you can make an informed decision and choose the ETF that is right for you. Visit ThinkMoneyTrader for more financial bytes like this.