Battle of the Consumer Staples ETFs: Who Comes Out on Top, XLP or VDC?

Core Insights - The article compares two consumer staples ETFs: Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (VDC) and State Street Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR ETF (XLP), highlighting their similarities and differences in terms of holdings, performance, and cost [6][9]. Fund Overview - Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (VDC) includes 103 stocks, providing broader coverage in the consumer defensive sector, with significant holdings in Walmart, Costco Wholesale, and Procter & Gamble [2]. - State Street Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR ETF (XLP) focuses on 37 companies, primarily large-cap stocks, and aims to mirror the Consumer Staples Select Sector Index [3]. Performance Metrics - XLP offers a higher dividend yield of 2.7% compared to VDC's 2.2%, making it more appealing for income-focused investors [7]. - Both funds have low expense ratios and solid long-term performance histories, making them suitable for buy-and-hold investors [9]. Holdings Composition - XLP has a higher weighting in consumer non-durables, while VDC has a greater focus on retail stocks [8]. Investment Considerations - Income-oriented investors may prefer XLP due to its higher dividend yield, while those bullish on retail may favor VDC [9].