Who is it good for?: Investors looking for a low-cost index fund that is broadly diversified across the market-cap spectrum. How to buy: The fund can be purchased directly from the fund company or through most online brokers.
The fund has been around for a while, having begun trading in 2001. And with Vanguard as the sponsor, you know the costs are going to be low. Expense ratio: 0.03% (every $10,000 invested costs $3 annually) 5-year annualized return: 12.1%
More top index funds While the S&P 500 and Nasdaq are two of the most popular stock market indexes, there are many others that track different parts of the investment universe. These three index funds are also worth considering for your portfolio.
Expense ratio: 0.18% (every $10,000 invested costs $18 annually) 5-year annualized return: 13.6% Who is it good for? Great for investors looking for a relatively low-cost index fund that focuses on technology and growth companies.