11 Top Vanguard ETFs to Buy and Hold Forever -- Starting in 2026

Core Insights - The introduction of exchange-traded funds (ETFs) in Canada in 1990 and their debut in the U.S. in 1993 marked a significant development in investment options, with the first U.S. ETF being the SPDR S&P 500 ETF [1][2] Growth of ETFs - ETFs have seen explosive growth, with a record $1.5 trillion invested in them in 2025, largely due to their nature as index funds and ease of trading [2] Investment Options - Vanguard is highlighted as a leading provider of ETFs, known for low fees and a variety of options suitable for different investor objectives [3][9] Broad-Market Index Funds - Key broad-market index funds include: - Vanguard S&P 500 ETF (VOO) with a 1.13% dividend yield and 5-year average annual return of 14.76% - Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) with a 1.12% dividend yield and 5-year average annual return of 13.41% - Vanguard Total World Stock ETF (VT) with a 1.83% dividend yield and 5-year average annual return of 11.24% [5][6] Dividend and Income ETFs - ETFs focused on income through dividends include: - Vanguard Total Bond Market ETF (BND) with a 3.86% yield and a 5-year average annual return of (0.27%) - Vanguard Dividend Appreciation ETF (VIG) with a 1.62% yield and a 5-year average annual return of 11.67% - Vanguard High Dividend Yield Index Fund ETF (VYM) with a 2.44% yield and a 5-year average annual return of 12.72% [8][10]