VDC vs. PBJ: Does Comprehensive Coverage Beat Concentrated Food Bets?

Core Insights - The Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (VDC) and the Invesco Food & Beverage ETF (PBJ) target defensive sectors but differ in cost, diversification, and portfolio focus [1][10] - VDC offers broader coverage, lower costs, and higher yields compared to PBJ, which focuses specifically on food and beverage companies [1][11] Cost and Size Comparison - VDC has an expense ratio of 0.09% while PBJ charges 0.61% [3][4] - As of January 30, 2026, VDC's 1-year return is 4.6%, contrasting with PBJ's -1.2% [3] - VDC has a dividend yield of 2.1% compared to PBJ's 1.7% [4] - VDC's assets under management (AUM) stand at $8.5 billion, while PBJ has $94 million [3] Performance and Risk Analysis - Over five years, VDC experienced a maximum drawdown of 16.55%, while PBJ had a drawdown of 15.84% [6] - A $1,000 investment in VDC would have grown to $1,359, whereas the same investment in PBJ would have grown to $1,279 [6] Portfolio Composition - VDC holds over 100 stocks, with 98% allocated to consumer defensive stocks, including major companies like Walmart, Costco, and Procter & Gamble [7][11] - PBJ consists of 31 stocks, primarily in the food and beverage sector, with top positions including Sysco, Corteva, and Monster Beverage [6][7] Investment Implications - VDC is suitable for investors seeking low-cost, diversified exposure to the consumer staples sector with lower volatility [12] - PBJ may appeal to those specifically targeting the food and beverage subsector, despite its higher fees and recent underperformance [12]