VOOG vs. MGK: How S&P 500 Growth Compares to Mega-Cap Tech Giants

Core Insights - The Vanguard Mega Cap Growth ETF (MGK) and the Vanguard S&P 500 Growth ETF (VOOG) target U.S. large-cap growth stocks but differ in diversification, sector tilt, and recent performance [1][2] Cost & Size - Both MGK and VOOG have an expense ratio of 0.07% - As of December 12, 2025, MGK has a 1-year return of 15.09% and a dividend yield of 0.37%, while VOOG has a 1-year return of 16.74% and a dividend yield of 0.48% - MGK has assets under management (AUM) of $33.0 billion, compared to VOOG's AUM of $21.7 billion [3] Performance & Risk Comparison - Over the past five years, MGK experienced a maximum drawdown of -36.02%, while VOOG had a maximum drawdown of -32.74% - A $1,000 investment in MGK would have grown to $2,083 over five years, compared to $1,978 for VOOG [4] Portfolio Composition - VOOG holds 217 stocks, with a sector exposure of 44% in technology, followed by communication services and consumer cyclical - MGK is more concentrated with 66 holdings and a heavier tilt toward technology at 58%, with top positions in Nvidia, Apple, and Microsoft [5][6] Investment Implications - MGK focuses on mega-cap stocks, defined as companies with a market cap of at least $200 billion, resulting in a more targeted portfolio - VOOG offers a broader approach by tracking the growth segment of the S&P 500, which may reduce volatility but could also lead to lower returns during tech rallies [8][10] - The choice between MGK and VOOG depends on investor goals, with MGK suitable for those seeking exposure to mega-cap leaders and VOOG for those wanting greater diversification [11]