The Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (NYSEMKT:VDC) maintains a significantly larger pool of assets under management (AUM) and a longer track record, while the Fidelity MSCI Consumer Staples Index ETF (NYSEMKT:FSTA) offers a slightly lower expense ratio.
Investors looking for defensive equity positions often gravitate toward the consumer staples sector, which focuses on non-discretionary goods like food and household supplies
This comparison examines two popular options that offer exposure to these relatively stable companies during periods of broader market uncertainty. Snapshot (cost & size) The Fidelity fund provides a marginally more affordable entry point with an expense ratio of 0.08% compared to 0.09% for the Vanguard fund. Additionally, the Fidelity fund offers a slightly higher distribution yield, leading to a gap of 0.08 percentage points between the two products.
Performance & risk comparison What’s inside The Vanguard Consumer Staples ETF (NYSEMKT:VDC) focuses heavily on consumer defensive stocks, which make up 98% of the fund. It currently holds 103 positions and was launched in 2004. Its largest holdings include Walmart (NASDAQ:WMT) at 16.15%, Costco Wholesale (NASDAQ:COST) at 12.26%, and Procter & Gamble (NYSE:PG) at 9.12%.