The Vanguard Energy ETF (NYSEMKT:VDE) offers low-cost, broad exposure to traditional fossil fuel giants, whereas the VanEck Uranium and Nuclear ETF (NYSEMKT:NLR) provides a concentrated, higher-cost focus on the global nuclear power value chain.
Investors weighing these two options are choosing between a specific bet on the nuclear energy renaissance and a broad play on the entire U.S. energy sector
While the VanEck fund tracks the global nuclear industry value chain, the Vanguard fund captures the heavyweights of the domestic oil, gas, and coal markets. Snapshot (cost & size) The Vanguard ETF is the more affordable choice for long-term holders, with an expense ratio of 0.09% that is significantly lower than the 0.52% charged by the VanEck fund. Both ETFs offer comparable dividend payouts.
Performance & risk comparison What’s inside The Vanguard ETF targets businesses involved in discovering and producing crude oil, natural gas, and coal. Its portfolio is 100% concentrated in the energy sector across 111 holdings. Largest positions include ExxonMobil (NYSE:XOM) at 21.98%, Chevron (NYSE:CVX) at 14.21%, and ConocoPhillips (NYSE:COP) at 5.78%.