Better Global ETF: Vanguard's VT vs. the iShares URTH
The Vanguard Total World Stock ETF (NYSEMKT:VT) and the iShares MSCI World ETF (NYSEMKT:URTH) both offer broad global equity exposure, but they differ significantly in cost, diversification, and geographic reach. These ETFs are designed for investors seeking comprehensive equity exposure in a single ticker. While the iShares fund concentrates on large- and mid-cap companies in developed nations, the Vanguard fund provides a truly global reach by including thousands of small-cap stocks and emerging-market companies. Beta measures price volatility relative to the S&P 500; beta is calculated from monthly returns over the available fund history (up to five years). The 1-year return represents total return over the trailing 12 months. Dividend yield is the trailing-12-month distribution yield. Continue reading