3 Unstoppable Vanguard ETFs to Buy Even If There's a Stock Market Sell-Off in 2026

Core Viewpoint - Vanguard offers three exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that are considered solid investment options regardless of potential market downturns in 2026, emphasizing a long-term investment strategy [2][12]. Group 1: Vanguard S&P 500 ETF - The Vanguard S&P 500 ETF (VOO) tracks the S&P 500 index, which includes approximately 500 companies representative of the U.S. economy [3]. - Historical data shows that after every bear market, the S&P 500 index eventually reaches new highs, indicating a strong long-term upward trend [5]. - The ETF has a low expense ratio of 0.03%, making it an attractive option even when the index is near all-time highs [6]. Group 2: Vanguard Dividend Appreciation ETF - The Vanguard Dividend Appreciation ETF (VIG) focuses on stocks that have increased dividends annually for at least 10 consecutive years, eliminating the highest-yielding 25% to favor growth [7][8]. - This ETF has a low expense ratio of 0.05% and includes over 330 stocks, providing diversification and a history of price appreciation and dividend growth [9]. - The investment strategy is designed to favor financially strong companies with good business models, making it a growth-oriented choice rather than a yield-focused one [8]. Group 3: Vanguard Utilities ETF - The Vanguard Utilities ETF (VPU) is positioned to benefit from a projected 55% increase in electricity demand between 2020 and 2040, driven by advancements in AI, data centers, and electric vehicles [10]. - The ETF has a reasonable expense ratio of 0.9% and ensures portfolio diversification, with approximately 90% of its holdings exposed to the anticipated growth in electricity demand [11]. - This ETF offers a straightforward way to capitalize on long-term opportunities in the utility sector, which is expected to see significant investment and growth [10].