ZACKSยท2025-07-24 11:20Core Viewpoint - The Vanguard Growth ETF (VUG) is a leading passively managed ETF focused on the Large Cap Growth segment of the US equity market, with significant assets under management and low expense ratios, making it an attractive option for investors seeking growth exposure [1][4]. Group 1: ETF Overview - Launched on January 26, 2004, VUG has amassed over $179.85 billion in assets, making it the largest ETF in its category [1]. - The ETF targets large cap companies, defined as those with market capitalizations above $10 billion, which are generally more stable and less volatile than smaller companies [2]. Group 2: Growth Stock Characteristics - Growth stocks, which VUG primarily invests in, exhibit faster growth rates, higher valuations, and above-average sales and earnings growth compared to the broader market [3]. - These stocks tend to perform well in strong bull markets but may underperform in other market conditions [3]. Group 3: Cost Structure - VUG has an annual operating expense ratio of 0.04%, making it one of the least expensive ETFs in the market [4]. - The ETF offers a 12-month trailing dividend yield of 0.44% [4]. Group 4: Sector Exposure and Holdings - The ETF has a significant allocation to the Information Technology sector, comprising approximately 50.90% of the portfolio, followed by Consumer Discretionary and Telecom [5]. - Major holdings include Microsoft Corp (11.76%), Nvidia Corp, and Apple Inc, with the top 10 holdings accounting for about 59.24% of total assets [6]. Group 5: Performance Metrics - VUG aims to match the performance of the CRSP U.S. Large Cap Growth Index, having increased by roughly 9.98% year-to-date and 20.04% over the past year as of July 24, 2025 [7]. - The ETF has traded between $329.49 and $450.40 in the past 52 weeks [7]. Group 6: Risk Assessment - VUG has a beta of 1.18 and a standard deviation of 21.78% over the trailing three-year period, indicating a medium risk profile [8]. - The ETF holds about 166 different stocks, effectively diversifying company-specific risk [8]. Group 7: Alternatives - VUG holds a Zacks ETF Rank of 1 (Strong Buy), indicating strong expected returns based on various factors [9]. - Other ETFs in the same space include the iShares Russell 1000 Growth ETF (IWF) with $113.80 billion in assets and the Invesco QQQ (QQQ) with $358.67 billion, both of which have higher expense ratios compared to VUG [10]. Group 8: Investment Appeal - Passively managed ETFs like VUG are favored by both institutional and retail investors due to their low costs, transparency, flexibility, and tax efficiency [11].